Eguide Magazine December 2016 edition

December 1, 2016 • Issue 12, Volume 4

Boba-Loompia:

Filipino Culture and Community

A Rose City Christmas: East Texas Boot Camp:

Concerts, Parades, & Santa Sightings

The Destination & The Journey

Cole Allen:

There He Goes Again, Up On The Stage

4803 Old Bullard Rd, Ste 1, Tyler, TX 75703 (903) 581-6700 — dakotasintyler.com LIVE MUSIC

(Wednesday and Thursday 7-10, Friday & Saturday 8-11)

Thursday, December 1st - Solomon Skiles Friday, December 2nd - Clay Thrash Saturday, December 3rd - Nightwork Jazz Wednesday, December 7th - Paul Shafer Thursday, December 8th - Meredith Crawford Friday, December 9th - Senor Gringos Saturday, December 10th - Gary Patrick Band Wednesday, December 14th - Daniel Rocha Thursday, December 15th - Scotty G Friday, December 16th - George Faber Saturday, December 17th - The Magills Wednesday, December 21st - Gary Patrick Thursday, December 22nd - Jonah Gonzales Friday, December 23rd - Rick St. Mars Saturday, December 24th - CLOSED Wednesday, December 28th - Daniel Rocha Thursday, December 29th - Clint Alford Friday, December 30th - Levi Kitchen Saturday, December 31st NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION with Lady Chazz and the Tramps 8 pm-12:30 am Restaurant Hours (Late nights are bar only): Mon-Thur:11am - 10pm, Fri: 11am - 12am, Sat: 2pm - 12am 2 • EGuideMagazine.com

Our food is great and our employees are the friendliest around!

We offer a widevariety of food!

If you have not been to Purple Pig, then we’d love to see you!

Dine-in, to go orders and catering available.

19785 TX-155 Flint, TX 75762 (903) 825-6800

113 W Longview St. Arp, TX 75750 (903) 859-2390

8336 Paluxy Dr. Tyler, TX 75703 (903) 509-0122

December 31, 2016 Located at 8358 Paluxy, Tyler, at the Paluxy Mall next to Coaches & Cowboy’s Dinner, veggies, snacks, sweets and party favors Cash bar ~ Champagne Toast at 12 midnight $40 per person No reservations unless you buy a table for 8 Doors open at 7:oo pm

EGuideMagazine.com • 3

December 1, 2016 • Issue 12, Volume 4

Contents 5-7 Food

» “Boba-Loompia: Filipino Culture and Community”

by Barbara King » Traditions Restaurant & Catering Serves Thousands » “Janie’s Cakes: Finally Oprah Realizes Something We’ve all Known for Years” by Holli Fourniquet » Piada Italian Street Food: A New Dining Concept » Food News & Events

9-14 Things to Do » It’s a Rose City Christmas! » 10 Things to Do Downtown This Month

» “East Texas Adventure Boot Camp: It’s Not The Destination, It’s The Journey” by Johnny Griffith

» “Tyler Solid Waste Department: Versatility at its Best”

by Caroline Sanchez

» December Holiday Movies at Liberty Hall, Times Square Cinema, and Carmike Theatre

13-19 Music

» “Cole Allen: There He Goes Again, Up On The Stage” by Johnny Griffith » “Lady Chazz & The Tramps: As Smooth As Ever”

by Johnny Griffith » The Old Firehouse in Edom presents Danny Schmidt in Concert » “Jeremy Peyton: Betting On Himself”

by Johnny Griffith » “Levi Kitchen: Using The Tools He’s Given”

by Johnny Griffith » Native Texan, Mark McKinney to Perform at Love & War in Lindale » In Concert: Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison, i2i Records presents “All Star Country Christmas,” Scott Stapp, Reckless Kelly, Josh Abbott Band, Elvis Hometown Christmas Show, Ray Wylie Hubbard, and Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt » The Complete Music Gig Guide for Live Music

20 Theatre

» “Sip & See” plus “The Santaland Diaries:” A Full Night of Fun at Cherokee Theatre » “Upcoming Plays, Musicals, and More

21 Art

» Inside the Artist’s Studio: “Rebecca Clarke” by Derrick White » At the Tyler Museum of Art This Month

22-23 Books

» “Good Reads” by Gini Rainey: Reviews of “What the Dead Know” by Laura Lippman, “The Lives We Bury” by Allen Eskens, and “Night School, Jack Reacher Series Book 21” by Lee Child » At the Tyler Library and Barnes & Noble Booksellers

Staff Publisher Tena Jerger Sales Manager Louie Jerger Copy Editor Holli Fourniquet,

Gini Rainey, Jill Toft

Editorial

John Baggett, Toni Bloom, Johnny Griffith, Barbara King, Matt Magill, Gini Rainey, Derrick White

Distribution

Mandy Allen, Louie Jerger, Barbara King, Mike Withrow

Need Some Extra Cash?

“EGuide” is looking for distributors!

4 • EGuideMagazine.com

We have our Broadway, Tyler route open. To apply, you need reliable transportation and must be available on the last Saturday of each month for 3-4 hours. To apply, e-mail us at: EGuideMagazine@gmail.com

“EGuide Magazine” is an event-driven entertainment magazine focusing on ‘things to do’ in East Texas. We are published once a month. We are distributed free in our unique stands at over 400 locations in Tyler, Lindale, Ben Wheeler, Edom, Chandler, Chapel Hill, Lake Palestine, Flint, Bullard, Whitehouse, Rusk, and Jacksonville.

We will list at no charge most events open to the public. All necessary information should be included such as date, time, ticket cost, description of event, phone number for the public, website address, photos - the more the better. Submit event to:

(903)630-3030 • EGuideMagazine@gmail.com

Food

and order if you are in a hurry, and give them 45-minutes preparation time.

The beef Tapsilog is marinated beef served with two eggs with your choice of steamed or garlic rice. Beef-n-Broccoli Stir Fry is a favorite too, served with either rice or egg noodles.

Friends and co-workers Lauren Fehlis and Cheryl Ruiz were enjoying lunch “in a place that is a real cultural treat,” said Fehlis. “I have lived in Austin, and this restaurant reminds me of the community and Filipino culture you can find there.” Ruiz added, “The prices are fantastic, and the portions are huge, so you can’t lose - plus you get to experience a different cuisine.”

Finish off your meal with a specialty dessert called turon, a “lumpia style” plantain banana with jackfruit or cheesecake lumpia served with mango jam. Don’t leave until you’ve tried the halo halo, another traditional dish, which literally means ‘mixed together.’ The ingredients vary from boiled sweet beans, coconut, agar jelly, and fruits mixed with shaved ice.

As well as being conveniently located, the restaurant makes it easy to order with a kiosk up front where you can peruse the menu and place your selection. Catering is available, but it’s best to call in and talk through what you want as far as taste and preferences. Gift cards are also available at the restaurant for a special Christmas gift. Smaller parties are welcome, and it’s a great location for a birthday, bridal shower, or small get together.

Boba-Loompia wants you to experience the Filipino culture and community, so come in and get ready for some wonderful exotic tastes.

Boba-Loompia is open Monday -Saturday 10:30am-9pm, and closed Sundays. Boba-Loompia is located at 3979 University Blvd., Tyler. For more info or to place a to-go order call (903)630-7337 or go to bobaloompia.com.

Boba-Loompia:

Filipino Culture and Community Written and Photographed Barbara King How about taking a step outside your regular go-to food establishments, and try a cultural change-up in taste at Boba-Loompia?

Co-owners and friends, the Llave and Carpio families have brought new and authentic Filipino flavors to Tyler, literally right across the street from the University of Texas at Tyler. The restaurant, which opened in April 2016, has slowly grown to be the go-to spot for students and families alike that want to experience true Filipino dishes, made with love and care every day.

Originating in Asia, bubble tea, or boba is all the rage at the restaurant. The combination of sweetened tea and flavors plus the unexpected tapioca pearls at the bottom of your glass, give it the name “boba” or bubbles as they come up through your straw.

Almira Nunn, assistant manager, says, “Our name is derived from ‘boba’ from the tea to ‘lumpia,’ referring to our fried egg rolls.”

Bubble teas are the number one item on the menu and can be either fruit or milk-based with lots of add-ins to suit your taste. It is known by many different names, such as bubble tea, pearl milk tea, tapioca ball drink, and pearl shake. It is usually served cold, with an extra wide straw available for savoring the chewy boba along with your drink. They also have an extra special popping boba that is filled with juice that literally pops when chewed.

The boba is actually derived from the starch of the cassava root and becomes chewy and translucent with the texture of a gummi bear candy.

It’s a rare mix of soft on the outside, chewy in the middle, and naturally sweet in the center.

Add-ins for flavor include rainbow jelly, mango jelly, blueberry pops, peach pops, pomegranate pops, kiwi pops, or coffee jelly.

Fruit smoothies feature avocado, taro, papaya, durian, banana, strawberry, mango, honeydew, and strawberry mango for $4.50.

What attracts the college crowd and keeps them coming back? It’s a little bit of everything; from the fact that the restaurant is not a chain to the fact that it also employs students and boasts that it is “100% Tyler-Texan grown.”

Every table is adjacent to outlets for charging laptops and free WiFi, and a white board for study groups gives the restaurant a very welcoming vibe for the student population. “I would

Traditions Restaurant & Catering Serves Thousands this Holiday At the holidays, many families

say it’s the prices, portions, and people,” adds Nunn.

UTT Nursing students Kha Nguyen and Nade McMahon dropped in between classes for a boba, royal milk tea, and Nguyen said, “It’s so convenient for us to come by, and the drinks are very delicious and not like anything else in Tyler. We both know a little bit about Filipino food and we love it.”

Start off your dining adventure with either beef Mami soup (braised beef, bok choy, and egg noodles in rich beef broth) or the famous lumpias (fried spring rolls, either beef, chicken, pork, or veggie) or the traditional Siopao steamed dough buns (your choice of either chicken or pork.)

Rice options include Pansit Bihon, rice noodles with a choice of chicken or pork, or Pansit Canton which are egg noodles with either chicken or pork. Lovers of stir fry can feast on a plate with garlic hoisin sauce including your choice of chicken, tofu, or pork.

Their combo plates can’t be beat, (ranging from $5.95 to $8.25) starting with adobo, which literally means a marinade made from paprika, oregano, salt, and vinegar (chicken or pork) served with garlic or steamed rice and two fried lumpias. BBQ pork skewers are also served with garlic or steamed rice and two fried lumpias.

The fish special (blackened or coconut curry) is a scrumptious full plate of seasoned, specially-prepared fish. Or try the Lechon Kawali (crispy pork belly) that also comes with garlic or steamed rice and two fried lumpias.

If you like chicken, try the Lollicup chicken (fried chicken) served with rice and two lumpias. Chicken wings come in five flavors with all the sauces made from scratch, including, coconut curry, adobo, honey lemon, pinoy, and spicy buffalo.

Chef specials include crispy pata (deep fried pork leg with tender meat and crispy skin). This treat takes time, so call ahead

Jack Ryan's Steak & Chophouse

in our community are looking for ways to take the hassle out of holiday meal planning and cooking and for ways to enjoy their time with family and guests. Traditions Restaurant & Catering is Tyler’s leading provider of traditional, made-from-scratch holiday dinners, whether guests choose to dine in the restaurant or to purchase their holiday dinners to go.

A holiday custom for many East Texans, Traditions Restaurant says that it usually serves over 2500 guests on Thanksgiving Day between the hours of 10:30am and 2:30pm. And with Christmas just around the corner, Traditions is a great source for time saving!

Throughout the entire holiday season, guests can expect to enjoy traditional roasted turkey, Heartland’s Original Honey Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham, or roast beef along with made-fromscratch cornbread dressing, giblet gravy, cranberry sauce, a large selection of vegetables, salads, and rolls, and of course, a huge selection of pies, cakes, and other delicious desserts.

A great time saver for many, Traditions Restaurant also offers Holiday Meals To Go with their classic fare. These packaged meals are made from scratch, served hot, and include choices of turkey, Heartland’s Original Honey Glazed SpiralCut Ham, or roast beef along with cornbread dressing, giblet gravy, cranberry sauce, a large selection of vegetables, salads, and rolls. Whole pies are also included in the orders. Meals To Go can feed four to twelve.

Please visit the Traditions Restaurant & Catering website to view the Holiday Menu, www.traditionstyler.com.

Traditions Restaurant & Catering is located at 6205 S. Broadway Ave., Tyler. To place your holiday order, please call the restaurant at (903)534-1111.

Tyler’s Premier Steak and Chop House Located Downtown Tyler on the Square

Open for Lunch Tuesday thru Friday 11am to 2pm Dinner Tuesday thru Thursday 5-9pm, Friday- Saturday 5pm-10pm Jack Ryan’s is now Catering for all Special Occasions!

102 N. College Ave, Tyler, TX 75702 — Call (903)630-7651 for reservations today!

EGuideMagazine.com • 5

Janie’s Cakes:

Janie Clapp, the bakery’s owner, baker, and self-proclaimed pound cake fanatic, learned her craft from her great-grandmother. But these aren’t your average pound cakes. Janie puts a little spin on this classic dessert and brings the traditional pound cake up a few notches on the scale.

By Holli Fourniquet tastyEach cake is made from scratch and uses all Janie’s Cakes natural ingredients with absolutely no preservatives. Farm-fresh eggs, creamery butter, real has long been a vanilla extract, and pure cane sugar give Janie’s favorite in the Tyler area. Their Cakes a unique taste you won’t find anywhere website claims else. “Man-made substitutes will never substithey make “the tutes for real-deal organic ingredients at Janie’s best darn pound Cakes,” their website states. cakes in the For those chocolate lovers out there, Janie world,” and cus- has a saying, “True chocolate lovers deserve tomers far and wide agree. true chocolate!” That’s why Janie only uses Now, even Oprah Winfrey is singing praises organic chocolate in her pound cakes. for Janie’s Cakes. Oprah has added Tyler’s very Which brings us to the next reason why own Janie’s Cakes to “Oprah’s List of Favorite Janie’s Cakes is far better than any pound cake Things 2016.” “Hands down, it’s the best pound you’ve ever had before: the flavors! Janie likes cake I’ve ever had,” Oprah said. to get creative with her pound cakes, so she

Finally Oprah Realizes Something We’ve all Known for Years

experiments with various flavors. Customers have many options of cakes to choose from depending on what they are craving. Some are filled with chocolate sauce, Italian buttercream icing, and raspberry curd and topped with everything from chocolate chips and chocolate shavings to pecans and sprinkles.

Customers can get a full-sized pound cake that serves 12-15, a baby Jane that serves 6, or a petite Jane that serves 1-2.

“No matter what flavor you have a hankering for, there is something delicious waiting for your sweet tooth at Janie’s Cakes,” the website claims.

Janie’s Cakes has been selling pound cakes in Tyler for 13 years now. They can be bought locally at the bakery located in Downtown Tyler or at FRESH by Brookshire’s. Janie will also ship cakes to all 50 states.

Janie’s Cakes make great gifts for the holidays or to ship to family you might not get to see this holiday season. All Janie’s Cakes are

shipped frozen and come with a care instruction card to ensure the best quality of the product.

Janie says that the precision and attention to detail required to meet her customer’s standards means a lot of work goes into each cake.

Because each cake is made with all natural ingredients and no preservatives, Janie personally, along with her daughter Katherine Crow who is co-owner of the bakery, makes sure that each cake will arrive fresh no matter where it is being sent.

Janie’s Cakes has been recognized before as the “Best Pound Cake” nationwide, but never on this scale. Other places Janie’s Cakes has been featured include “Southern Living” magazine, “Southern Lady” magazine, “Texas Highways,” “Country Living” magazine, and it was featured on the “Texas Country Reporter.” This is, however, the first time it has been named to “Oprah’s List of Favorite Things.” Because of the recognition, Janie’s Cakes was also featured on “Good Morning America.”

“We are thrilled to be part of ‘Oprah’s Favorite Things 2016,’” said Crow.

This is not the first time a local Tyler business has been listed as one of Oprah’s favorite things. In 2003, Tyler’s Greenberg Smoked Turkey was on this coveted list. The then talk show host raved about Greenberg Turkeys for 42 seconds on air during the popular “Oprah’s Favorite Things” annual episode. Those 42 seconds resulted in more than $1 million in sales for Greenberg Smoked Turkey that year.

Today, Greenberg Smoked Turkey sells more than 200,000 birds each year thanks to what is called the “Oprah Effect.”

Here in Tyler, locals have always known Janie’s Cakes is the best, and perhaps word-ofmouth finally made it to Oprah. No matter how Oprah got wind of one of Tyler’s favorite things, Tyler is happy to share the deliciousness with the world!

As it is described on their website, Janie’s Cakes are “just old-fashioned pound cakes with really high standards.” If you haven’t tried Janie’s Cakes, try one… try them all!

Janie’s Cakes is located at 308 E. Front St., Tyler and is open 10am-5:30pm Monday-Friday. For more info on the flavors, more products, where to buy them, or shipping call (903)592-6150 or go to janiescakes.com.

Good Food.

Great Places.

Your Guide to Where to Eat in East Texas.

Presenting...

2017 Dining Guide Published in EGuide’s January 2017 edition and distributed at 64 hotels throughout the year.

To place an ad, go to:

EGuideMagazine.com/DiningGuide The deadline to be included is December 9th.

6 • EGuideMagazine.com

Piada Italian Street Food:

News

A New Concept in South Tyler

Piada Italian Street Food will debut its first East Texas location in Tyler, Texas in early 2017.

The 2,416-square-foot fast casual restaurant, located off Highway 69 S, across from Faulkner Park at 8942 S. Broadway Ave., Ste. #140, will be Piada’s first in East Texas, and the seventh Texas-wide. The Tyler location will seat 60 guests comfortably inside the restaurant and will feature light-filled interiors and modern, European-inspired décor with design elements including warm-stained concrete floors, crisp LED lighting, and handmade white oak furniture, plus Carrara marble, brushed aluminum, painted brick, and subway tile accents. Piada CEO Chris Doody is thrilled to be opening his first restaurant in east Texas. “We’re excited to bring a fresh, modern Italian concept to the fast-growing community of Tyler, a major east Texas hub,” said Doody. “We invite Tyler area residents to sign up for a special VIP sneak peek of the restaurant ahead of its official opening.”

In addition, the namesake Piada is a thin crust, handmade dough, which is baked on a stone grill, filled with specialty items and then rolled as guests watch the entire process. Guests can enjoy other entrees including pasta bowls and chopped salads. Each is comprised of a grill item, cheese, and vegetables. Diners can choose from three signatures per category, such as the Chef’s Favorite Piada with spicy Diavolo sauce, romaine, sweet and spicy peppers, mozzarella, and shaved and creamy parmesan, basil pesto pasta with parmesan Alfredo, sundried tomatoes, and freshly grated parmesan, as well as the balsamic salad with spinach, shaved napa and red cabbage, feta, bruschetta tomatoes, red onions, spiced pecans, Granny Smith apples, and balsamic dressing – all customizable with an added protein. Grill selections range from all-natural rosemary, garlic, and lemon chicken to spicy Italian sausage with fennel and herbs, and salmon prepared with lemon and olive oil, while toppings span artichokes to black olives.

The made-to-order menu also features seasonal specials. Try the Fall Steak Avocado Piada, which is hand-rolled with grilled steak, arugula, pancetta, avocado, fresh mozzarella, spicy balsamic aioli, pepitas, and roasted butternut squash, or the Harvest Grain and Apple Salad with crispy chicken fritte, mixed field greens, crumbled feta, Granny Smith apples, pepitas, and the Harvest Grain Seasonal Side with dried cranberries, spiced pecans, and roasted butternut squash tossed with lemon basil dressing.

Entrees are complemented by sides including tomato basil and lobster bisque soups, two kinds of hand-rolled breadsticks – ParmigianoReggiano and pepperoni served with a creamy

parmesan dipping sauce – and decadent Cannoli Chips dessert incorporating crispy, rolled Italian cookies lightly tossed in powdered sugar and accompanied by chocolate chip cream icing. Beverage service showcases Italian sodas and teas alongside Acqua Panna and San Pellegrino waters. A kid’s menu is also available.

Piada Italian Street Food began as an idea scribbled on a napkin during a visit to Rimini, Italy. Their Chefs found “distinct charm in the family operated food carts and corner markets scattered throughout the streets of the city where the aroma of fresh basil, hand-crafted cured meats, and homemade cheeses saturated the air. This trip began their obsession…inspiration…mission to bring this experience back to the United States.”

They opened the first Piada restaurant in 2010 with a mission to create fresh, modern Italian food focused on the preparation of high quality ingredients and attention to simplistic cooking. Today’s consumers are looking for healthier, better quality food with convenient, fast delivery to accommodate their hectic lifestyles. Piada was created with the belief that you don’t have to sacrifice quality and flavor for speed and value.

Service will be provided continuously 10:45am-10pm seven days a week, and catering will also be available. For more info and to sign up for a chance to attend Piada’s Tyler PreOpening VIP week, go to mypiada.com/tyler.

You can also like Piada on Facebook @piadaitalianstreetfood, follow on Twitter @mypiada, and Instagram @piadaitalianstreetfood.

La Madeleine will open December 13th, specializing in French cuisine and will be located in a newly built shopping center on the northwest corner of Old Bullard Rd. and Loop 323, Tyler. La Madeleine, a French bakery (or boulangerie), opened in February of 1983 by Patrick Leon Esquerre. The first location was on Mockingbird Ln. in Dallas.

According to the company’s website, Esquerre was inspired by his mother’s cooking and insisted on using fresh ingredients and recipes to maintain “the integrity of French cuisine.”

Menu items include a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas, French classics, and other entrees. For more info call (903)258-9050 or go to lamadeleine.com.

Aspen Creek Grill is close to opening.

From their website, “Aspen Creek Grill is a full service, casual dining restaurant and bar. The restaurant features made-from-scratch fare with a variety of choices from hand-cut steaks, freshly chopped salads, house-smoked ribs, rich and creamy pastas, and juicy double patty burgers, to a full bar and daily specials featuring freshlysqueezed lime margaritas, specialty drinks, and domestic as well as craft beers on tap.

Aspen Creek Grill offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with relaxing comfort of a mountain lodge theme for family-friendly dining and also a great destination for a more lively night out with friends.” Aspen Creek has locations in Amarillo, Irving, San Antonio, and Lubbock in Texas, as well as Kentucky and Indiana locations. Aspen Creek Grill is located at 1725 WSW Loop in front of Home Depot, Tyler. For more info call (903)630-8370 or go to www.aspencreekgrill.com.

Seafood Shack, located at 2301 S. Broadway, Tyler in the shopping center with SteinMart will be opening soon.

Aldi is now open. “The savings in Tyler are getting bigger. Come into ALDI and get your favorite groceries for your home at incredibly low prices. From fresh produce to organic foods, we’ve got it all for less, every day.” Aldi is located at 200 SSW Loop 323, Tyler. From their website, “We sell only the weekly must-haves – most of which are our high-quality brands. Our smaller inventory means smaller stores, which leads to lower rent and electricity costs. This allows us to pass the savings on to you.” Bring your own bags (save the earth) and a (refundable) quarter for the shopping cart.

Freddie Mae’s Soul Food Cafe is now open.

Catfish Shrimp Crawfish Oysters Crab Lobster Alligator Gumbo Etouffée

According to their website they offer “great food, fresh and bursting with flavor and that is what Freddie Mae’s is about. Serving the Tyler and east Texas area, we provide great tasting food that’s prepared fresh with the highest quality ingredients. Treat yourself to a nutritious meal from our delicious hot bar, or perhaps you might be more in the mood for some slow-smoked Bar-B-Que with that authentic backyard taste.

Freddie Mae’s has it all. Top it off with one of our mouth-watering made-from-scratch desserts [that is] sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Either way, at Freddie Mae’s you are sure to enjoy fantastic food, great atmosphere, friendly service, and affordable prices.

Take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey at Freddie Mae’s. Family recipes are sometimes passed down from grandmother to grandson. As the grandson (our chef) combines more than 20 years of restaurant experience with recipes shared with him by his grandmother, the result is Freddie Mae’s!”

Try the heavenly chicken and dumplings and their hand-battered chicken fried steak with peach cobbler for dessert. To die for! Freddie Mae’s is located at 403 W. MLK Jr. Blvd., Tyler.

They are open Monday-Saturday 11am-7pm, and Sunday 11am- 4pm. For more info call (903)630-8680 or go to freddiemaestyler.com.

Gusterz Gourmet Pops has opened at The Village at Cumberland Park, 8934 S. Broadway Ave., Ste. 432, Tyler.

Gusterz Gourmet Pops is a locallyowned store featuring handmade Ice Pops made on site. They offer traditional popsicles as well as nondairy options, unique flavor pairings, and favorite traditional favors. For more info call (903)581-7677 or go to facebook.com/ gusterzgourmetpops.

The Burrito Gourmet is now open next door to The Burger Grind on Old Jacksonville Hwy., Tyler. They are serving up delicious burritos, tacos, and bowls. “We are offering the same quality, beef/brisket fresh grind as our burgers at Burger Grind.” Sounds yummy!

Events

Every Tuesday - “Keep It Local Tuesdays” supports local restaurants by meeting and eating at a different locally owned restaurants every Tuesday evening, usually around 7pm. This gathering is open to anyone.

Check their Facebook page for where they are meeting each week at facebook.com/ KeepItLocalTuesdays.

MUSIC:

Steaks Every Tuesday: Darrin Morris 6:30-9:30 Chicken Every Wednesday: Sausage Clayton Jones 6:30-10 Boudin Every Thursday: Tamales Levi Kitchens 7-10 Burgers Every Friday Boom Boom Room Karaoke 7-11 PoBoys Beer Live Music Every Saturday, 7-11 Wine

EGuideMagazine.com • 7

at 3900 University Blvd., Tyler. For more info and ticket prices call the box office at (903)566-7424 or go to cowancenter.org.

C hristmas

It’s a Rose City Christmas!

This holiday season, there are a ton of things going on to help you get into the holiday spirit.

These events include:

S anta L and D rive T hru C hristmas P ark

Open Through January 4th, 2017, 6-10:30pm, 7 days a week Experience the sights and sounds of a Christmas Wonderland with over 2 ½ million lights lighting your path. Take a ride on Santa’s Trailer or remain in the warmth of your own vehicle as you drive through Santa Land’s 24-acres of unforgettable adventure designed especially for the entire family. Before you leave, be sure to stop by the 4000 sq. ft. gift shop. Admission fee is $25 per car. 15 Passenger commercial vans are $35 for 15 people and $5 per person for each additional passenger. There is an additional fee for trailer rides. Santa Land is located at 11455 I-20 West at exit 557 in Lindale. For more info call (903)882-1518 or go to santalandtylertx.com.

“S eason of L ight ” & “T he C hristmas S tory ” at CESSE

Open Tuesday-Saturday, November 1st-December 31st (“Season of Light” 1pm; and “The Christmas Story” 3pm) The Center for Earth and Space Science Education (CESSE) will present two shows this holiday season.

“Season of Light” explores the rich history of our holiday traditions from solstice festivals to Santa Claus. “The Christmas Story” brings the traditional story of Christmas to life. You can accompany Mary and Joseph, stand before King Herod, and travel with the three wise men.

Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students, seniors, and children.

CESSE is located on the campus of Tyler Junior College, 1411 E. Lake St., Tyler. For more info call (903)510-2312 or go to sciencecenter.tjc.edu.

in the

P ark

B reakfast

with

S anta

Saturday, December 10th, 9-10am Enjoy breakfast with Santa at Broadway Square Mall!

Admission is free, and it is free to join the Kidgits Club.

This will be held at Broadway Square Mall in the Center Court, 4601 S. Broadway Ave., Tyler. For more info, (903)561-7055, shopbroadwaysquare.com.

December 2nd at 6pm This special place and event is for families to celebrate the Christmas season together by singing Christmas carols around the brightly lit Christmas tree, drink “C hrist is B orn ” Snowman Soup, and roast marshmallows for S’mores Sunday, December 11th (9am and 10:30am) over an open fire. Admission is free. The Children’s Park and Monday, December 12th (7pm) of Tyler is located at 110 E. Dobbs, Tyler. For more info It is a holiday tradition to see this magnificent choir call (903)939-1597 or go to childrensparktyler.org. and orchestra Christmas program. Admission is free.

This will be held at Green Acres Baptist Church, 1607 “T he N utcracker ” Troup Hwy., Tyler. For more info call (903)525-1114 or Friday, December 2nd go to gabc.org.

(7pm), December 3rd (2pm & 7pm) and R oseland P lantation Sunday, December 4th C hristmas T ea & T our (2pm & 6pm) Monday and Wednesday, Join the TJC AcadDecember 12th & December 14th, 2pm emy of Dance and This is a four-course afternoon tea and historic planDance Department as tation tour. Tea and tour cost is $30 per person plus they present the 28th tax and gratuity. For tours only, the cost is $8 per perannual “Nutcracker!” son. Reservations are required for both. Roseland PlanThis performance has tation is located at 2591 State Hwy. 64 W. (6 miles west something for the of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport) in Tyler. For more info entire family such call (903)849-0205 or go to roselandplantation.com. as beautiful sets and costumes that will dazzle you, amazing dancers from L ive N ativity at around East Texas, and gorgeous music composed by P yron G arden Peter Tchaikovsky. Admission is $15-$25. This will be Friday-Saturday, Decemheld at TJC Wise Auditorium located at 12237 S. Mahon ber 16th-17th, 6-8:30pm Ave., Tyler, on the TJC Campus. For more info and tickYou’ve seen the ets call (903)510-2483 or go to tjc.edu/nutcracker. beauty of the Pyron Garden in the spring “A zalea D istrict T rail of L ights ” T our during the Azalea Trail, Fridays-Saturdays, December 2nd-3rd, 9th-10th now you can enjoy a & 16th-17th, 6-8pm (leaving every hour with the last tour beginning at 8pm) living Nativity Scene in Take a ride through the beautiful historic Azalea that same garden while District, where you will see the sights and sounds of listening to Christmas Christmas from an open-air touring shuttle. Tours will music. Admission is depart from Broadway and Dobbs Streets. Tickets are free for all ages. This will take place at 212 W. Dobbs St., $10 per person, children five and under are free. For Tyler. For more info call (903)593-1204. more info call (903)330-8262 or go to visittyler.com/ “T he F estival of N ine rosecitychristmas.

A nnual B rick S treet S troll : “A D ickens C hristmas in the V illage ”

L essons

and

C arols ”

Sunday, December 18th, 4pm Tyler Civic Chorale will present the “Festival of Saturday, December 3rd, 10am-5pm Nine Lessons and Carols,” a beloved Christmas tradiJoin the fun for holiday cheer and activities while tion in the Tyler Community. Admission is free. This shopping for unique gifts and services in the festive and will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Tyler in the quaint Brick Street Village of Tyler. Costumed shopkeep- Sanctuary located at 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. For more ers will be offering sales, giveaways, and refreshments. info call (903)597-6317 or go to fpctyler.com/events/ Food trucks will be serving food for a fee. Horse-drawn ninelessonsandcarols. carriage rides will be available, as well as a Kiddy ChristF amily C hristmas E ve S ervice mas Train, Cookie Walk, Treasure Hunt with prizes, Saturday, December 24th, 3pm street musicians and artisans, plus photos with Santa!

Especially for families with a focus on the nativFood and lattes will be available. Admission is free. Brick ity scene, First Presbyterian Church of Tyler will offer a Street Village is located at W. Charnwood, W. Phillips, Christmas Eve Service in the Sanctuary located at 230 and Rusk St. between S. Broadway, S. College and S. S anta C laus W. Rusk St., Tyler. For more info call (903)597-6317.

Bois D’Arc Streets.

For more info call (903)530-2527 or P hoto E xperience (903)939-8878 or find Brick Street Village on Facebook.

46 th A nnual M oravian L ovefeast Through December 24th, times vary Saturday, December 24th, 5pm Sit on Santa’s lap and tell him C hristmas at M c C lendon H ouse what you want for Christmas at This is an ecumenical candlelit service beloved Thursday, December 8th, 4-8pm Broadway Square Mall! This holithroughout the community. A prelude begins at 5pm Welcome to a beautiful Christmas Past! Costumed day tradition offers photo pack- docents and happy carolers guide you through the Victo- with the Lovefeast following at 5:30pm. First Presbyteages available for purchase. This rian home and share warm moments of holidays gone by. rian Church of Tyler is located at 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. takes place daily at the Sears It’s history with a heart! Admission is free. The McClenFor more info call (903)597-6317.

Court at Broadway Square Mall, don House is located at 806 located at 4601 S. Broadway Ave., Tyler. For more info W. Houston St., Tyler. For call (903)561-7055 or go online to shopbroadwaymore info call (903)539square.com.

6837 or go to mcclendonhouse.net.

W inter W onderland of T rees Through December 31st, 10am-6pm H oliday in the Come tour the beautiful “Winter Wonderland of “G arden ” and B azaar Christmas Trees” and see the beautiful and unique Saturday, December 10th, “Theme Trees,” the lovely “Nativity,” and more. Feel free 10am-8pm (Vendor Bazaar to pause a moment under the breathtaking traditional 10am-5pm) 12-foot tree and leave an unwrapped toy for the Tyler Enjoy the sights and Firefighter’s Toy Drive. You can bring your kids and sounds of the holiday with camera for a family photo, too. Free candy canes for the more than 50 vendors onkids will be given away. Admission is free. This will take hand with items for sale. place at Prestige Estates Assisted Living and Memory Kids can enjoy storytime Care, located at 6928 Paluxy Dr., Tyler. For more info with Mrs. Claus and check call (903)561-6102 or go to prestigeestates.net. out the Garden decorations after dark. There will be C irque D reams H olidaze so much to experience this Thursday, December 1st, 7:30pm year! Admission is free for Cirque Dreams Holidaze celebrates the most wonall ages. Tyler Rose Garden derful time of the year with soaring acrobatics and seais located at 420 Rose Park sonal music favorites through elaborate production Dr. in Tyler. For more info numbers, imaginative costumes, illusions, and more. call (903)531-1214 or go A complimentary reception will serve ‘holidaze’ goodonline to tylerparksandrec. ies prior to the show. Usher in the season with inspiracom. tion and fun for all! UT Tyler Cowan Center is located 8 • EGuideMagazine.com

which will be donated to People Attempting to Help (PATH). Admission is $10.

December 10th at 7:30pm, i2i Records Presents “All Star Country Christmas” featuring the talents of Tim Atwood, Wade Benson Landry, and Dion Pride. Tim Atwood, a 38-year veteran of The Grand Ole Opry stage and the reigning AWA Instrumentalist of the Year will be on the piano, pounding thrills.

VIP tickets include the best seats in the house, a pre-show Meet and Greet with the stars, autographs, and special photo opportunities.

General admission tickets are $20-25.

December 16th at 8pm, “The Elvis Hometown Christmas Show” will celebrate a rockin’ Christmas this holiday season with internationally acclaimed Elvis tribute artist Kraig Parker and the Royal Tribute Band. Playing to sold-out audiences around the world, critics call Kraig “the best in the business.” Tickets are $20-35.

Tickets for any concert or movie can be purchased at libertytyler.com. Liberty Hall is located in downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin.

Don Juan’s on the Square (113 E. Erwin) offers authentic Mexican food in a very lively, festive atmosphere.

Fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, and killer margaritas are on the menu.

SportsZone (115 E. Erwin) is a sports bar with lots of TV’s and awesome food, like burgers, sandwiches, wings, and pizza.

The Foundry Coffee House (202 Broadway) S ee the H istory at the M useums S. is a coffee shop that focuses on serious coffee Downtown Tyler has several museums, and excellence, atmosphere, art, music, and conthis holiday season, there are several events versation.

Hot and iced coffees are available, highlighting them. as well as pastries and muffins. The FoundDecember 8th, 4-8pm, Downtown Tyler s iced chai latte is awesome! They have live will host its “Museums Holiday Open House.” ry’ music every Thursday night, and they are Enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Christ- open late Thursday-Saturday. mas interpreted in many ways during this free Taqueria Lugar (111 W. Ferguson) is a family event in Downtown Tyler. Families will taqueria withEla small excellent menu of have the opportunity to enjoy seasonal décor nachos, fajitas, flautas,but tacos, burritos, soup, in a train depot, as celebrated by a 19th-cenquesadillas, enchiladas, and more.

They are tury family, at a science museum, in art, and only open Monday-Wednesday 10am-7pm; throughout the history of Tyler. Admission is and until 8pm on Thursday-Friday. free to the various downtown museums. For Moocho Burrito (200 W. Erwin) offers more info call (903)593-6905 or go to tylerDowntown Tyler is a wonderful array of breakfast and lunch. Moocho offers big burri‘things to do’ this holiday season. Here are 10 mainstreet.org. tos loaded with your choice of beef, chicken or December 8th, “A Victorian Christmas things to do for all ages. pork with rice and beans, as well as tacos, queat the Goodman” will take place. Christsadillas, and salads. They are open 7am-4pm. mas Belles and re-enactors will greet you at S ee a M ovie Strada Caffe (302 E. Front St.) incorpothe door and you will be serenaded by carolHoliday Classic Movies are tradition for rates the elements of a great breakfast and ers singing traditional songs. Enjoy treats and lunchallexperience: young and old alike. Liberty Hall is showsuper atmosphere, variety beverages and take a carriage ride down to the and selection, service ing “A Christmas Story” (1983) December with a smile, and fresh 1st; “White Christmas” (1983) will be Decem- square and back. Admission is free. Goodman- food. Owners Tavo Tellez and Heather Alderber 8th; “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) will be LeGrand Museum is located at 624 N. Broad- man bring years of experience in the restauway Ave., Tyler. For more info call (903)531- rant business to this unique bistro with exotic shown December 15th. Tickets can be pur1286 or go to goodmanmuseum.com. chased at libertytyler.com. Liberty Hall is The caffé’s furniture and fixtures Gallery Main Street has the exhibit “Glassy influences. located in downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin. are a mix of modern and retro, with the origiand Glossy” showing through the holidays.

Tickets are $7. nal brick walls from the gas station mixed with Gallery is located at 110 W. Erwin St. jazzy art popping with bright colors and modC elebrate the H olidays with a The in Downtown Tyler. Gallery hours are Monern themes.

P arade & C hristmas T ree L ighting day-Wednesday 10am-5pm, Thursday-FriDecember 1st Downtown Tyler hosts the H ear S ome M usic day 10am-6pm, and Saturday 12 noon-4pm, Tyler Rotary Clubs’ Christmas Parade and Tree closed Sunday. For more info call (903)593Every Friday and Saturday downtown Lighting and will feature marching bands from 6905 or go to downtowntylerarts.com.

Tyler comes alive with music. Rick’s on the local schools with parade floats decorated for Square (104 W. Erwin St.) offers hot dance E at Y our H eart O ut the season representing community groups music from touring bands, either outside on Downtown Tyler offers lots of dining and local non-profit organizations. This is a the patio or inside on a huge stage. options. celebration of the season in historic DownDown the street, Garage Bar offers live Jack Ryan’s Steak and Chophouse (102 N. music town Tyler. The annual Christmas Parade will on weekends, DJ music, and open mic College) is “where everything is hand-crafted begin at 6pm at the corner of Bow St. at N. every Thursday. The renovated warehouse is and made fresh daily using the finest ingreBroadway Ave., then proceed south on Broada casual open air dive bar with lots of options dients available. From our delicious jumbo way and around the downtown square. It is entertainment both inside and outside on lump crab cakes to our mouth-watering steaks for free to attend. picnic tables. Garage Bar is located at 418 E. The 31st Annual Christmas Tree Lighting cooked to perfection, you can taste the fresh- Erwin St., Tyler, (903)617-7713.

Ceremony will take place immediately follow- ness and quality in every bite.” Reservations The Foundry Coffee House (202 S. Broading the parade. The city will celebrate 31-years are recommended and can be made by calling way) is a coffee shop that has live music every (903)630-7651. of lighting the City of Tyler’s Christmas Tree.

Thursday night, some weekends, and they are Rick’s on the Square (104 W. Erwin) is Live music performances and the ‘magic finopen late Thursday thru Saturday. housed in a beautiful 1920’s mahogany art ger’ of this year’s Miracle Child, selected by El Guapo Records recently opened at 257 the Christus Trinity Mother Frances Children’s deco building offering a bar, large dining room S. Broadway featuring vintage and new vinyl with a stage, and an outdoor patio.

Rick’ s Miracle Network, will light the tree. Admisat this record store. Although you technically sion is free. This will be held at the T.B. Butler offers awesome steaks, market-fresh seafood, can’t sing here, you can enjoy a ton of great Fountain Plaza downtown Tyler on the Square. home cooking from scratch, and desserts vinyl, CD’s, an eclectic vibe, and some really made in-house. cool music.

H ear a C oncert Sunday Brunch is offered at Rick’s on the December 17th at 10am, Liberty Hall will December 3rd at 8pm, Kelly Willis and Square 10am-2pm, too! This brunch offers host the holiday favorite movie “Frozen” plus Bruce Robison will be in concert. This duo is classics like scrambled eggs, bacon and saua Sing-Along!

See the Disney favorite movie way too down-to-earth - they’re Texans, after sage, biscuits and gravy, assorted breads, and all. Tickets are $15-30. Fresh off his fall tour other dishes like eggs benedict with hollanda- “Frozen” and sing-along with Anna and Elsa, you can meet and greet with these lovely with country icon, Martina McBride, rising ise, frittatas, eggstrata, pancakes with heavenly then princesses after the show, and take a photo to country artist Hudson Moore brings his ener- bourbon maple syrup. Bottomless mimosas Admission is $10. Tickets can be getic live show as the opener. and other drink specials are available too. Kids remember. purchased at libertytyler.com and at the door.

December 5th at 7pm, join Rabbi Neal under six eat free.

Liberty Hall is located at 103 E. Erwin.

Katz for the 9th annual “Chanukah-Klezmer” Black Pearl Oyster Bar (106 W. Erwin) is Celebration. “Klezmer is the music of EastR ead a B ook at the L ibrary a stunning place with an excellent fresh seaern European Jewish life, much like the music food menu and amazing handcrafted cocktails.

The Tyler Library offers a variety of events of ‘Fiddler on the Roof.’” The majority of the from storytimes to crochet classes every month Black Pearl is elegant and the bartenders and audience is not Jewish, as this is a community chef are extremely passionate about the food as well as an extensive selection of books, perishow filled with people who just want to expe- they serve. Black Pearl is for seafood enthuodicals and more. Most events are free. rience the unique sound of Klezmer. Individ- siasts and those looking for a sophisticated Holiday events are: • December 9th at 3-5pm, Christmas Holiday uals are encouraged to bring can food items, experience in Tyler.

High Tea Party will be catered by Chez Bazan. Tickets are $20. Come out and enjoy the holiday with a new tradition.

• December 17th at 10:30am, “Merry Grinchmas” - Celebrate with the Grinch, including a 25-minute movie, games, crafts, and snacks. This will be fun for the kiddos!

• December 27th at 2pm, Teen Tuesday will feature a White Elephant Party! Bring a wrapped gift (valued at less than $10) for a White Elephant Exchange. Plus, watch a movie and enjoy snacks with other teens.

Be sure to get a free Library Card which will allow you to check out e-books through the Overdrive app!

S ee S ome C ars

December 11th, the 2nd Sunday of the month, Coffee and Cars Tyler takes place 9-11am, and features all kinds of cool cars parked all around the downtown square. This is a monthly gathering of automotive enthusiasts of all ages who meet and share their passion for cars, trucks, and bikes on the beautiful and historic downtown Tyler square. This is a great time when hundreds of car enthusiasts gather as well as lookers of all ages. Moocho Burrito is open for coffee for this event.

S hop Y our H eart O ut

Downtown Tyler offers shopping for the old and the new.

Ye Olde City Antique Mall and City Market (302 E. Locust) is literally a unique treasure trove of old and new alike in downtown Tyler. It is a place to escape the stress of today with the memories of the past. Ye Olde City is a stroll down memory lane - chock full of antiques, china, silver, jewelry, and unique finds. Hidden at the corner of Locust and Line Streets, the market straddles a center lane with ample parking for visitors wanting a few hours of meandering and moseying through more than 60 booths filled to the brim with everything from books to vintage clothing to jams along with furniture and holiday decorations.

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and at Susan Robinson Jewelry (102 N. College), East Texas’ premier fine jewelry boutique, you can find a gorgeous selection. They carry the most renowned and sought-after timepieces, bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces, and pendants that have been selected from around the world.

A ttend

a

W orship S ervice

From beautiful stained glass offering stunning beauty and history, Tyler has many gorgeous churches downtown. The holiday season brings out their unique historic beauty.

Each will offer Christmas programs that are open to the public. Some will offer Christmas Eve services. These are: • First Baptist Church, 301 W. Ferguson St. • West Erwin Church of Christ, 420 W. Erwin St. • Marvin United Methodist Church, 300 W. Erwin St. • Christ Episcopal Church, 118 S. Bois D Arc • Bethel Bible Church - Downtown, 202 S. Broadway Ave. • Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 423 S. Broadway Ave. EGuideMagazine.com • 9

East Texas Adventure Boot Camp: It’s Not The Destination, It’s The Journey

By Johnny Griffith Just in case you haven’t noticed, the Holidays are upon us in all of its splendor and regalia. Along with the lords-a-leaping, the drummers drumming, and the turtle-doves, the holidays always bring plenty of sugar-plums, candy-canes, and over-indulging on your Granny’s chocolate pie. If you’ve always wished you could find a way to win the battle of the Christmas belt-line and in the process, get a head start on your New Year’s resolution, you’re not alone. One local business catering to people who are looking for people who are looking for more than just a quick-fix or guilt workout is East Texas Adventure Boot Camp (ETABC).

Owned by local Tyler business-woman Melanie Edwards, and her husband Trey, East Texas Adventure Boot Camp has been helping people achieve transformations for almost 10 years.

Edwards, a thirty-three year old full time mother, wife, and entrepreneur born in Lindale, has had transformations of her own along the way to success and in the process it has taught her perspective and what people really need when they start down the path of self-discovery and fitness.

We sat down with Melanie in a rare moment of downtime for some insight on her journey and what East Texas Adventure Boot Camp has to offer East Texans, not just around resolution time, but for year-round well-being: Johnny: How did your journey bring you to become involved with personal training originally?

Melanie: I have studied with nationally accredited programs such as NESTA (National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association), NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), and IFA (International Fitness Association). My background education in Psychology gives me a unique spin on approaching fitness goals from the inside out, but my purpose and passion is actually driven from my own personal trials with an eating disorder from early in life. Because of this struggle, and my openness in sharing about my eating disorder, I feel that I have a distinctive ability to understand and relate to the pain that is experienced in overcoming obstacles. I have been so blessed to be able to use this dark experience of my life in a way that will help others overcome the obstacles in their lives. It feels wonderful to be able to say that my story, even with it’s dark and wavering chapters, has made a difference in the lives of others.

Johnny: At what point did you decide to transition to ownership?

Melanie: Our franchise opened here in Tyler in 2007. In 2008 the original owner was looking to hire a very part-time trainer, and I was at a crucial and pivoting point in my life, so I really needed some extra work. I accepted the part-time job, and then the part-time job very quickly became a full time job. The owner moved out of state. I pretty much took off from there. Looking back, I am in awe of the entire transition. I had no idea how badly I needed to “get lost” in a job that put other’s needs before mine.

I was young, recently divorced, and honestly, pretty lost. The following five years of leadership not only changed my life, but it transformed me into a confident, loving, and radiant person.

Before this company came into my life, I was quiet and unsure about what to say or do, but over time I realized I had something within me that was worth being proud of. After five years of leadership and co-partnership with the previous owner, I requested to purchase the company as the sole owner as of December 2013.

Johnny: What have been some of the challenges of being a small business owner in a competitive fitness market?

Melanie: Honestly, one thing I have done pretty well is

‘Ocean Wonderland’ Playing at CESSE

Jean-Michel Cousteau’s “Ocean Wonderland” is the newest dome show for the Center for Earth & Space Science Education at Tyler Junior College. Showtimes are 2pm Tuesdays-Saturdays, through Thursday, December 29th.

The TJC science center is located at 1411 E. Lake St., Tyler. Tickets are $5 for children, seniors, and students; and $7 for adults. Day passes are also available.

Produced and directed by Cousteau, son of the late oceanographer and filmmaker Jacques Cousteau, “Ocean 10 • EGuideMagazine.com

believing in my vision and my ability to help people.

There will always be something in life that competes against you or causes you to question your abilities or worth, but it is your sense of self-worth and value that you must believe in to overcome these periods of struggle. The times that I have struggled the most have been when I have lost sight of my deepest purpose and vision. In those times I have learned to turn inward and create a different kind of connection to whatever it may be that allows my purpose to shine.

Johnny: What do you feel sets ETABC apart from other fitness experiences?

Melanie: I believe that our focus on overall wellbeing sets us apart from any other fitness program.

We know that when you are challenging yourself physically there are many other doors that open up, and you become more and more aware of what you’re doing and what you’re capable of. At the same time, at some point the newness will wear off, and it will become more difficult to see results, feel inspired, and generate overall excitement to continue on this path of self discovery and change. This is where our expertise takes over because we have created a lot of awareness around individual needs, and we have learned how to “dig deep” by asking all the right questions and then following up with the key, accountability.

Our mission is to help people gain strength in all areas of their life. This strength isn’t gained by running instead of walking, doing burpees in a certain amount of time, or doing hundreds of push ups. It’s also not only about incorporating a balanced diet with consistent exercise. The key to helping someone develop strength in all areas of their life is to help them find their individual and “magic formula.” The kicker here is that everyone’s “magic formula” is different, and that is the beauty of what we do. We embrace the individual and the life that he or she wants to live. In short, we help them shine.

Johnny: Your website describes East Texas Fitness as a family-owned company, yourself along with your husband Trey. How does having him actively involved in the process enhance that feeling of family with your members?

Melanie: As I have pretty much said, I “grew up” over the course of the past eight years. People have been in and out of our boot camp program, and they have seen me transition into becoming a girlfriend, a fiance, a wife and now, motherhood. I can tell you without doubt that our members know how much Trey has supported my vision and passion, and there is no other man in this world that could handle it either! When it comes to my friends and this fitness family, I am fierce. I’ve worked hard to be passionately devoted to all things ‘boot camp,’ and it’s so nice to have Trey alongside me. Trey never once complains when my alarm sounds at 3:50am, and he’s always there when I need to bounce an “off the wall” workout idea at him or ask him about a business matter. He served in the United States Army for 11 years and is an excellent leader. His partnership and support is appreciated every single day.

Johnny: Would you say you have a typical member type, or is this truly an experience for anyone with the desire to achieve a fitness goal?

Melanie: The only thing that all our members have in common is this: grace and kindness. We truly have members of all walks of life, literally all sorts of people, sizes, backgrounds, and ability levels. We even have entire families who attend our program.

Johnny: What are some of the common stories and concerns you hear from new members?

Melanie: Typically I think it is common for people to think that they will be judged if they aren’t able to do something correctly, and that is what I love about training outdoors or at a facility without mirrors. I don’t create the time or space for someone to even think about what someone else around them may or may not be doing. From the minute you arrive at my class, it’s all about you. You move and create space to discover what feels right for you, and if you feel right and good, then you’re doing it well.

Johnny: So obviously with the holidays in full swing, there

will be plenty of over-indulging going on when it comes to treats and eats. What is some advice you can give for the upcoming family gatherings?

Melanie: Consistency. Workout, workout, workout. This time of year gets crazy. The hustle and bustle doesn’t always mean people are hustling at their workout. Show up to your workouts, even with evening parties and celebrations.

Also, be consistent in your eating habits. Don’t skip meals because you’re too busy or you have a party in the evening and you want to eat and drink.

I think it’s also important to remember that the holiday season is also emotionally hard for some people, and working out can help work through some of the negative emotions that the holiday season can open up. Creating a consistent routine will help people combat depression and anxiety and being around people with grace and kindness helps, too.

Johnny: Obviously there is historically an uptick in fitness memberships in January, most of which tend to fall by the way in February and March. What would you say is key to turning those New Year’s resolutions into tangible transformations?

Melanie: I’ve been thinking about this for this New Year.

Instead of a long list of resolutions, I’m going to consider urging my members to pick one word to focus on. One word that will inspire them or make them think more. Of course, I am going to have them set their SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, reasonable, and time-appropriate) goals and have them share them with me, but I am going to encourage them to dig a bit deeper at the same time. I feel that an emotional connection to what you are doing is a must. It’s vulnerable, but it uncovers some of the “junk” that we all need to work through.

Johnny: Finally, as a successful business owner, what advice can you give to other women who are considering taking the leap into entrepreneurship?

Melanie: Define your purpose. Sometimes when we are stuck in the day-to-day (doing laundry, shuffling kids here and there, cooking meals, and other things), we forget there’s something that we can really be fired up about. Put all that aside and determine what your gift is. What is your story? How can you share it?

How can you love it? It is my vision and purpose that has been keeping me grounded and connected - to God’s word and to find guidance for my life. It’s been pretty freeing for me so far.

For more info about East Texas Adventure Boot Camp and for a complete class schedule go to easttexasfitness.com.

Wonderland” takes audiences on a stunning adventure beneath the waves to the heart of the oceans: the coral reefs.

Shot on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and in the Bahamas, “Ocean Wonderland” depicts the amazing beauty of the many varieties of coral and the immense diversity of marine life thriving there. The mission of the film is to underline the crucial ecological role coral reefs play in maintaining the wellbeing of the planet. “Ocean Wonderland” is the first large-format, underwater movie shot entirely using digital technology.

Also showing this month are dome shows featuring a holiday theme. They will be presented Tuesdays-Saturdays through December 29th.

• “Let It Snow” (10am) – This 30-minute show features a variety of high-resolution scenery and animation, enhanced with real-time and lighting effects for added variety and drama.

• “Mystery of the Christmas Star” (11am) – Journey back more than 2,000 years to Bethlehem for scientific explanation for

the star the wise men followed to find the baby Jesus.

• “Season of Light” (1pm) – This show recounts the historical religious and cultural rituals practiced during the time of winter solstice – not only Christian and Jewish, but also Celtic, Nordic, Roman, Irish, Mexican, and Hopi. It also takes a look at some of our more light-hearted seasonal traditions: from gift giving and kissing under the mistletoe to the custom of decking the halls with greenery and candles. Saint Nicholas, Sinterklaas, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas, and Santa Claus all drop by as well.

• “The Christmas Story” (3pm) – You can accompany Mary and Joseph to the Annunciation led by the angel Gabriel in Nazareth and search for a room in crowded Bethlehem plus stand before King Herod in his great palace, alongside the three wise men from the East. You can visit the shepherds and their flocks in a field and in a stable, then find the Child in a manger.

For more info or tickets go to sciencecenter.tjc.edu.

Tyler Solid Waste Department: Versatility at its Best

4th holiday. During the week of that holiday, garbage was serviced only one time that week for residential customers. This change cut fuel costs and lessened confusion for customers. It is innovative ways such as this that keep Solid Waste rates low and still provide quality service for Tyler customers.

The Bottom Line

The Solid Waste Department has not had a rate increase since 2012. They credit the use of Lean Six Sigma projects, revenue through the

By Caroline Sanchez Recycling Center, and lower maintenance costs as some of the reasons for the steady rate.

Voted three years in a row for being the Education and community involvement “Best in Garbage Collection” by “Locals Love Us,” the City of Tyler’s Solid Waste Department also play an important role in the way the Solid Waste Department conducts business. They are constantly strives to find better ways to serve its customers. From an app to accepting more always interested in hearing from customers.

With continual improvement as their manrecyclable materials, using vehicles that run on tra, it’s no wonder why Tyler Solid Waste is compressed natural gas and the capture and sale of methane gas at the landfill, Tyler Solid loved by the community!

For more info about Tyler Solid Waste, Waste is using innovative ways to help keep go to www.TylerSolidWaste.com or call the Tyler beautiful.

(903)531-1388.

Tyler Talks Trash

SPCA of East Texas’ New Year’s Eve Fur Ball

Come celebrate New Year’s Eve, December 31st, 7:30pm12:30am, with the SPCA at their 5th Annual Fur Ball at Hollytree Country Club, 6700 Hollytree Dr., Tyler.

Come ‘howl’ in the New Year with an evening of dining, silent auction and a live auction plus dance the night away to the sounds of Downtown Fever, Texas’ premier party band.

Proceeds from this festive event allow the SPCA to help homeless pets in the community by rescuing, rehabilitating, adopting, spaying/

neutering, vaccinating, and fostering.

For tickets or more info go to spcaeasttx. com/events/fur-ball or call (903)596-7722.

TheTickets 28thareAnnual ‘Nutcracker’ on

sale now for the Tyler Junior College Academy of Dance’s 28th annual presentation of “The Nutcracker,” set Friday-Sunday, December 2nd-5th in Wise Auditorium on the TJC main campus.

Performance times are Friday, December 2nd at 7pm; Saturday, December 3rd at 2pm and 7pm; and Sunday, December 4th at 2pm and 6pm.

All seats are reserved. Admission ranges from $10-$25.

For more info go to tjc.edu/Nutcracker or call (903)533-5554.

Never miss garbage day again with the Tyler Talks Trash app!

“We knew something needed to be done to alert customers in a faster and more reliable manner during times of inclement weather or other disruptions in service,” said Solid Waste Director Russ Jackson. “Now, customers can get alerts for useful information via an app.”

The app allows customers to see their collection day calendar by simply typing in their address. The calendar shows both recycling and trash collection dates, as well as any changes to the schedule including holiday or bad weather delays. Customers can also report a problem such as missed pick-ups.

Download the app on Google Play or the Apple Store.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Keeping Tyler green and reducing our carbon footprint is another facet of Solid Waste’s operation. Open six days a week, the Recycling Collection Center offers free self-service drop-off for anyone in the east Texas region.

If you haven’t been to the Recycle Center lately, changes are coming. To increase efficiency, renovations are being made to the facility to house more recyclable materials inside that may be affected or ruined by weather if stored outside.

Items other than the usual plastic, glass, and paper that are accepted include ink cartridges, automotive batteries, electrical cords, motor oil, antifreeze, and even car bumpers.

Large items such as tires, refrigerators, air conditioner units, and more can also be dropped off at the Center for a very nominal fee.

Civic organizations or schools that would like to learn more about recycling can contact the Solid Waste Department to schedule a tour of the facility.

“We hope that by opening our doors to our citizens, more people will start to recycle,” said Solid Waste Superintendent Galen Billington.

“Recycling cuts down on the use of natural resources to make new products. Trees, petroleum, water, and minerals are all saved by manufacturing products from used materials.

Recycling also keeps waste out of our landfill, extending its lifespan.”

The City also offers a curbside pick-up service for customers who choose to have their recyclable items collected through garbage services. Anyone interested in signing up for this service should contact the Solid Waste Department.

What about Composting?

Composting has been around for years.

It’s a great way to recycle organic materials to make them into nutrient-rich additives for your soil. The Solid Waste Department has compost bins, manufactured from corrosion resistant materials, available for purchase.

Efficiency at its Best

During the February 24th, 2016 City Council meeting, the Solid Waste Department received a conditional approval to try a new holiday service pick-up schedule. Looking at potential ways to save money and make trash service more efficient and effective, the schedule changed for the first time during the July

EGuideMagazine.com • 11

THE OLD

December Movies

There is something for all ages at local movie theaters. Join the fun!

Liberty Hall

Edom, Texas

MUSIC

Saturday December 3, 2016 at 7:30 pm (doors open at 7pm) The Old Firehouse Acoustic Concert Series presents:

Danny Schmidt www.dannyschmidt.com

Named to the Chicago Tribune's 50 Most Significant Songwriters in the Last 50 Years, Austin, TX-based singer/songwriter Danny Schmidt has amassed a cult following for his stunningly poetic, poignant imagery.

With lyrical depth drawing comparisons to Leonard Cohen, Townes Van Zandt, and Dave Carter, Danny is considered a preeminent writer, an artist whose earthy poetry manages to somehow conjure magic from the mundane, leading Sing Out Magazine to tag him as: "Perhaps the best new songwriter we've heard in the last 15 years."

Performing solo almost exclusively, armed with just his voice, his acoustic guitar, and his acute commentary, Schmidt's an authentic timeless troubadour, one man sharing his truth in the form of songs, unadorned and intimate. The understated effect can be startlingly powerful. As songwriter Jeffrey Foucault put it: "Everything about the man is gentle, except for his capacity for insight, which is crushing." Danny has been here several times before, and always is a crowd favorite.

Join us in the only concert "listening room" in the area. Tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door

8241 FM 279 - Edom, TX - 903.852-ART1 (2781) www.theoldfirehouse.net

Classics and family movies are planned this winter. Catch a show in downtown Tyler’s historic theater, Liberty Hall, located at 103 E. Erwin, Tyler. Movies scheduled are: • December 1st- “A Christmas Story” (1983) • December 8th - “White Christmas” (1983) • December 15th - “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) • December 17th, 10am - “Frozen” Sing Along • January 12th - “Hairspray” Sing Along • January 19th - “Moulin Rouge” Sing Along • January 26th - “Mamma Mia” Sing Along • February 2nd - “Sleepless in Seattle” • February 9th - “An Affair to Remember” • February 16th - “Casablanca” Movies start at 7pm, except where noted above. Tickets are available online at libertytyler.com or at the door for $7.

Save the dates!

December 30th-31st Enjoy Continued Christmas Sales

Open Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm Downtown Tyler

302 E. Locust St. Tyler, Texas 75702 (903) 705-1145 or (903) 705-1144 oldcitytyler@gmail.com www.oldcitytyler.com

12 • EGuideMagazine.com

The “Date Night” series is held the first Wednesday of the month. Tickets are $3. Enjoy SMG’s 2 for $25 combo menu, and pair it with a bottle of Betty’s Blend. The Date Night movies start at 7:30pm. The scheduled movie is: • December 7th - “Elf”

“Girls Night Out”

“Girls Night Out” is held the second Wednesday. Tickets are $3 for all shows. These start at 7:30pm. The scheduled movie is: • December 14th - “Love Actually”

“Family Rewind Series”

“Retro Family Rewind Series” will be shown the third Wednesday and Sunday of the month. Enjoy this time to remember the past with these classic favorites. You’re never too old to feel like a kid again. Wednesday screenings are at 7pm, and Sundays are at 2pm. The scheduled movie is: • December 21st and 25th - “Home Alone”

“Special Needs Screenings”

“Special Needs Screenings” will be shown with the lights up and the sound lowered.

These family-friendly movies are free for children with special needs and start at 11am.

Everyone else (adults, siblings) pays before 12 noon matinee ticket prices. Special Needs screenings run with the lights up so the chilTimes Square Cinema dren are free to laugh, play, sing, and even Times Square Cinema is located at 5201 S. dance while they watch. Seating will be first come, first served. Look for the Chefs for ChilBroadway, Tyler. dren logo throughout the menu, and 5% of ALL ABOARD! Coming this Decemthe proceeds from these items will be donated ber “The Polar Express” will show Decemto SMG’s designated non-profits serving famiber 16th-17th, and December 19th-24th at lies of children with special needs. The sched9:30am. Tickets are $1 and there will be $3 uled movies are: kids combos.

• December 3rd - “Moana” Studio Movie Grill • December 24th - “Star Wars Rogue One” • December 31st - “Sing” Studio Movie Grill (SMG) is located at 8954 S. Broadway Ave., Tyler. Tickets are available at the door and studiomoviegrill.com. Toons Series Check out popular children’s television and direct-to-DVD titles on the big screen before Special Screenings SMG in Tyler is presenting special screen- you can buy them in stores. Each feature is a perfect one-hour-long movie experience for ings this month with your groups in mind, just in time for the holidays. Showtimes are at young children. These play monthly. Tickets are only $3.

7:30pm. Tickets are $5.

• December - “Snowman & Snowdog” • December 9th - “Office Christmas Party” For more info call (903)508-6991 or go to • December 16th - “La La Land” and “Star Wars Rogue One” studiomoviegrill.com.

Events

Antique Mall and Olde City Market

“Date Night”

Third Tuesday of each month - The Heart of Tyler presents a “Toast to Downtown,” a monthly happy hour showcasing local bars, restaurants, and coffee shops in the Downtown area on the third Tuesday of each month from 5-7pm. Show support for Downtown Tyler, and enjoy food and drink specials to accompany the monthly theme along with theme appropriate door prizes. Check out the Facebook page to learn about each new location at facebook. com/toasttodowntowntyler. For more info call (903)593-6905, heartoftyler.com.

December 3rd - The Grinch Run will take place in Chandler starting at 8am. The 5K Glow Run/Walk through Winchester Park and surrounding neighborhoods is to raise money for care packages for local soldiers stationed overseas. Runners receive free t-shirt and glow items to wear during the run.

To register go to chandlerchamber.webconnex. com/grinchglow. Also, Santa will be around to take your Christmas wish list, and there will be a parade, vendors, and more. This is an all day event. For more info go to www.facebook.com/ events/109777866166289.

December 12th (9-11am) - Enjoy Coffee & Cars at the heart of downtown Tyler. Grab a cup of coffee from Moocho Burrito as you view the cars and meet and greet everyone. Coffee & Cars Tyler is a monthly gathering of automotive enthusiasts who meet and share their passion for cars at historic downtown Tyler. For more

info go to facebook.com/CoffeeandCarsTyler.

December 3rd (10am-4pm) - Whitehouse Parade and Christmas in the Park - Celebrate the holidays at this all day free event geared around the whole family. The parade begins at 10am directly followed by Christmas in the Park until 4pm. Enjoy vendors, food, games, activities, pictures with Santa, and so much more. For more info call (903)941-5221.

December 9th-11th - “A Nightmare Before Christmas Con” Dark Holidays - Tours of Tyler has taken their two favorite holidays, Halloween and Christmas, and blended them into one fantastic event! Come spend a day and half enjoying horror films, movie and TV stars, Christmas activities, paranormal events and stars, horror authors and artists, food, and more. Grab your best, twisted holiday costume and join the fun! This will be held at Staybridge Suites Tyler, 2759 McDonald Rd., Tyler. Tickets range from $15-$100 and can be purchased on eventbright.com, search “a-nightmare-before-christmas-con.”

December 15th (6pm) - Blue Santa 2016 The 7th annual Blue Santa Program, when Peace Officers take underprivileged and abused children shopping for Christmas, will be held December 15th. The East Texas Regional F.O.P. was formed in 1996. Today, with more than 170 members, it is one of East Texas premier law enforcement organizations. Members are officers from the Tyler Police, Smith County Deputy Sheriffs, constables, TISD, TJC, DPS, City Marshalls, U.S. Marshalls, and the DEA. You can sponsor a child by donating at txfoplodge51.org. This will take place at Walmart, 5050 Troup Hwy., Tyler, (903)533-2014 or (903)533-2018.

Music Cole Allen:

There He Goes Again, Up On The Stage

By Johnny Griffith We’ve seen them before; the solo act, the lone wolf, up on the stage with the spotlight firmly on them and no one else for better or worse. In an area where live music is dominated by group acts, whether that be in the form of traditional bands or namesake bands with a semi-regular roster of backup musicians, there is a small but growing number of musicians who want to completely control the product they create.

One of these local musicians is Cole Allen.

A 2005 graduate of White Oak High School, Allen went to UT Tyler for a degree in Civil Engineering and currently works as an engineer in Longview. After getting his first guitar at the age of 15, Allen spent his high-school years playing bluegrass, and after a few years scratching a competitive itch as a bull rider, Allen decided to focus his free time on playing gigs. A capable multi-instrumentalist, Allen has been entertaining audiences with his one-manband style that includes guitar, harmonica, and a custom foot-drum setup that supplies the rhythm section.

We tracked down the musical engineer to get some insight on what drives him: Johnny: Okay, exactly how many musical instruments do you play?

Cole: I can “play” most anything with strings, but I’m not going to win any awards for my musicianship. When I perform, I play acoustic guitar, a Farmer Foot Drum kit, and harmonica.

Johnny: When did you decide to forego the traditional route and become a one-man band?

Cole: When I first started I didn’t have any friends around that could play anything, so I just figured I’d start my own band. I started by adding harmonica for lead, and then added a kick drum, and eventually the Farmer Foot Drum. Now I have musician friends, but I’m solo out of necessity. I’m over-committed to too many different things to make time for a band.

Johnny: That foot drum setup is pretty sweet, and I don’t recall seeing one quite like it. What’s the story on it?

Cole: They are called Farmer Foot Drums, and a guy named Pete Farmer makes them out

of Michigan. I was looking to add some percussion, but most of the stuff I found was electronic or bulky. I needed something that was acoustic and small enough to fit in a Honda Accord along with all my other stuff. I found the foot drum online and thought it was the coolest thing I’d ever seen. It has a kick, snare, tambourine, hi-hat, a shaker pedal, and can be carried like a suitcase.

Johnny: What have been the pros and cons of being a true solo act? Any special challenges to getting gigs because of it?

Cole: Freedom is the pro. I can book where or when I want and don’t have to consult with anyone else. I also don’t have to worry about a band member not showing up or drinking too much. I make my own set list, and if I want to try something new, I do it.

The cons are that it can be lonely. Travelling alone, setting up and tearing down alone, and playing alone. I have to try and interact with the audience so I have someone to talk to.

It can be tough getting gigs, most places only want solo acts for weeknight slots, and definitely don’t want to pay a one-man band like a band. Most of my problem is I’m not very persistent. Booking agents get bombarded with people wanting to play. If I was booking somewhere and some balding white guy in a polo with no tattoos sent me an e-mail asking to play, I probably wouldn’t listen to his stuff either.

Johnny: What has been your best memory this far into the ride?

Cole: This summer I opened for one of my heroes, Joe Ely, at Liberty Hall in Tyler. It was a packed house for Joe, and nobody had a clue who I was. I’ve played a few listening rooms and house concerts in the past, but nothing of this magnitude. There were a couple hundred strangers in the theater quietly staring at me as I walked on stage. It was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. I hit them in the head with a song about a homeless vet with PTSD on the fourth of July, then made up some stories about some of the songs I was playing, cracked a few jokes, and they ate it up. I nearly sold out of all my CDs and t-shirts after the show, and then I got to watch Joe play a great set. He sat down beside me after his set and told me stories about Guy Clark, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, and his late girlfriend Ramblin’ Jan, and I ate it up.

Johnny: How would you describe your music?

Cole: Americana is the broad, catch-all genre for those that don’t fit into a specific category. I’m on the rural roots songwriter side of Americana.

Johnny: I hear echoes of Reckless Kelly, Hayes Carll, and perhaps Charlie Robison in your original material. Who would you list as your influences at this point?

Cole: I like all of those guys and can hear where we are similar. I would say the main influences on my song writing are Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt, Jerry Jeff Walker, Hayes Carll, James McMurtry, Robert Earl Keen, and Adam Carroll.

Johnny: How much of your material during your show is original?

Cole: It depends on the venue and crowd. Venues where you play an hour and a half set, I’ll play mostly all originals. Most venues that I play in East Texas are three hours, and I’ll play a mix of originals and songs I like. If the audience is engaged, I’ll play more originals. If they are there to have a good time and I’m mostly background, I’ll play more covers.

Johnny: Your first album, “Sabine River Blues,” gave us a poetic, if melancholy at times, snapshot of life in east Texas around the Sabine. What was your inspiration for the material, and how was the album received?

Cole: Most of my inspiration comes from the lives of those around me. Since I’m an engineer, I’m too practical to have drama in my own life, so I have to rely on others for inspiration. Each song has it’s own story and inspiration.

For the song “Sabine River Blues” I tried to write a song that would capture the culture of the area around Zwolle on Toledo Bend. The only logical thing to do was write a ‘dirty murder’ ballad where all the characters ended up in the bottom of the river. The album was received well by friends and fans, but no press recognition or anything like that.

Johnny: As 2016 draws to a close, what do you have on the horizon for the new year?

Cole: Not much. I’ve got my second baby due right about the time this interview will be printed, so I haven’t done any booking to give myself some time to adjust. I’m hoping to have my new album done in spring 2017, and then my plan is to try and get out into some different venues and listening rooms after that.

Johnny: Tell us a little more about the new album? All new original material? Any collaborations?

Cole: I’m pretty excited about it. I think it’s much more cohesive than my first. I’ve got songs about east Texas, west Texas, and south Texas. There’re personal songs about being a dad, trying to balance life aesthetically while being an engineer and a musician, and living in your own head. There’s the song about PTSD I mentioned earlier, a song I wrote with Nick Brumley about a struggling musician trapped in the velvet rut of Shreveport, a song about the oil field recession, and songs about busted relationships. Then I also have a few songs with Zevon-esque inspired weirdo

characters, like the stalker who is getting tired of his love’s cat and mouse games, the Highway 80 hair-lipped harlot, and a few others.

I’m also going to include “Sabine River Blues” cut in 4/4 time.

Johnny: As a new fan, seeing you for the first time, what should I expect at a Cole Allen show?

Cole: Americana song writing with the grit of a one man show. If I’m playing as a duo with John Fox, it’ll be more rocking than the solo shows. Full band shows that I split with The Mansion Family are like an East Texas version of Bob Dylan with The Band. I play a set, Mansion Family plays a set, then I’ll join them for a set.

For more info about Cole Allen go to facebook.com/coleallenmusicpage or coleallenmusic.com.

L I VE

Every Thursday

Every Friday

Todd Renlee Paul Ruark

Every Saturday

Bobby & Ken

All Live Music is 6:30-9p.m. — No Cover Ever!

MUSIC

3320 Troup Hwy, Tyler, TX 75701

www.potpourrihouse.com (903) 592-4171

Serving Steak & Seafood EGuideMagazine.com • 13

Lady Chazz & The Tramps: As Smooth As Ever

By Johnny Griffith If you’ve been around East Texas for a minute or two, there’s a very good probability that you’ve been out for an evening of entertainment and heard the smooth vocal stylings of Lady Chazz Lee and her stellar band, The Tramps. Long time fixtures in the music scene, Lady Chazz and The Tramps (LC&TT) have been energizing audiences with their electric mix of music, personality, and talent for almost 17 years. The band currently consists of band leader and lead vocalist, Chazz Lee, guitarist and vocalist Jimmy Piatt, drummer and vocalist Kenneth Brackeen, bassist and vocalist Mickey Miller, and Richard “Daddy Rich” Lee on keys and vocals.

While Daddy Rich, Miller, and Brackeen are all East Texas natives getting started in music through either church or school, Chazz and Jimmy were transplants. Jimmy moved here from Oklahoma City for work, and Chazz, born in Louisiana, was raised in San Diego where her father was a drummer in his own band. She got her start in music singing in his band and eventually moved to east Texas through marriage.

Chazz and The Tramps graciously gave us some time to give fans a little more information about the band: Johnny: When did Lady Chazz & The Tramps first take shape as a band and how long has the current lineup been together?

LC&TT: The band was formed in 2000 by Richard and Chazz with Jim Day, Jimmy Piatt, and Trey Weinberg. In 2004, some players moved on to pursue other adventures (Jimmy and Trey), and Kenneth was acquired. The current band has been together for nine years, since 2007 when Jimmy returned and Mickey became the bass man.

Johnny: You guys have been a mainstay in east Texas for years. About how many shows do you estimate you’ve done as LC&TT?

LC&TT: It has been 16 years of banging it out, too many dates to count - from clubs to casinos (Friday-Saturday nights) and occasionally on a Thursday, private parties, wedding, bike rallies, festivals, and street fairs - but if we were to guess, it would be well over 3,000 shows.

Johnny: One of the big contributors to your success is the impressive catalog of songs you throw out from night to night. About how many songs do you have in your repertoire, and was it a conscious decision from the beginning to cover a wide selection of genres?

LC&TT: There are more than 300 songs in our repertoire between everyone that sings. We call what we do ‘Urban contemporary’ because it fits into all categories and pleases our very diverse audience. Chazz stated from day one that we are not just R&B, we are music.

Johnny: Your selection of cover tunes is almost legendary. Have you written any originals as a band?

LC&TT: Yes, we have written more than ten songs. There is a EP that has at least four original songs on it.

Johnny: How far of an area does the band travel for shows at this point?

LC&TT: The band performs throughout the ArkLaTex, which is about a 170-mile radius.

However, this does not include our performances east to Opelousas, Louisiana and west to the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex.

Johnny: Chazz is famous for interacting with the crowd and bringing them into the experience. What is it that you hope people take away from a Lady Chazz & The Tramps show?

LC&TT: We hope that they will get the best night of their lives each time they come out. We want them to know that we are doing our very best to entertain them, help them forget about their problems, and focus on a brighter tomorrow. Our objective is to have them laughing, singing, and dancing along with us. We do this so the audience can become a part of us, not just a face in the crowd.

Johnny: Out of all the shows that you have done as a band, what sticks out in your memory the most?

LC&TT: When the audience is begging us for ‘one more song’ because they don’t want the night to end, or the two-day scheduled gig in Oklahoma, that was played in one day due to rain (eight hours) to fulfill our contract.

Although, there is one event we all laugh about continually...we were performing at Sam’s Town Casino and as Chazz sang “I Fall to Pieces,” an elderly gentleman asked for her microphone. She gave it to him, and he said, “I’d fall to pieces for you every day.” He then sat down, unstrapped his prosthetic leg and handed it to her, took out his hearing aid, and removed his dentures. That was the highlight of the weekend.

Johnny: What has been the biggest challenge for you all, as a band, over the years maintaining an engaged fan base and keeping the gigs entertaining as the industry has changed?

LC&TT: Because we perform for a diverse audience, we feel it is our duty to have an open door for all genres. Our biggest challenge is attempting to get all the requests learned. We are not afraid of trying new things because sometimes it works, but when it doesn’t, after trying it a couple of times, we push it to the back and start again. We are always trying new things.

Johnny: Let’s say it’s a Thursday evening, you don’t have a gig, and you’re sitting down to relax and listen to some music. What are you listening to currently?

LC&TT: At one point, all of us watched the music shows that come on television, due to the different genres: “American Idol,” “The Voice” and “X Factor.” However, our listening taste in music is wide ranged. We like everything, from jazz, blues, classical, R&B, new age, reggae, rock, and gospel.

Johnny: Anything new on the radar for 2017 as 2016 draws to a close?

LC&TT: Our eyes and ears are always perched for new venues. Besides some of our regular places, which we are very grateful for (The Back Porch, Diamond Franchise, Herb and Dees, and Players), we have added two new venues where we will be performing soon. For New Year’s Eve we will be at Dakota’s

Chophouse in Tyler, and January 14th we will be at the Barefoot Bay Marina in Pittsburg, Texas.

Johnny: Who would you say has had the most impact, musically, on your life to this point?

LC&TT: Chazz – Her father and Tina Turner, who both were serious and hard but also kind and fair. They both gave true-to-life perspectives of the music business.

• Jimmy – A phenomenal high school guitarist by the name of Brian McDonald • Richard – Sam Cooke and Gerald Austin (lead singer of the Manhattans) • Kenneth – Besides his parents, Gene Krupa (drummer), Wolfman Jack and the Midnight special and Don Cornelius and the Soul Train show.

• Mickey – Paul McCartney and Tom Petersson (Cheap Trick) For more info about Lady Chazz and The Tramps call (903)241-5477 go to facebook. com/ladychazzandthetramps.

“Where Good Friends & Good Times Come Together”

(9pm 'til 1am)

NEVER A COVER!

Saturday, Dec. 3 E.TX.BLUES BOYS Dec. 17 SIDESHOW TRAGEDY Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Party!!!

DAZED and ALLY VENABLE BAND ($15 door fee)

2109 E. Fifth St. Tyler -- 903.535.7956 www.facebook.com/xln.pool.hall 14 • EGuideMagazine.com

Comfortable Casual Atmosphere Ladies Night on Wednesdays Happy Hour Noon ‘til 5:00pm

Danny Schmidt in Concert at TheSaturday Old Firehouse In Edom December 3rd at 7:30pm (doors

open at 7pm) Danny Schmidt will be in concert at The Old Firehouse as part of the Acoustic Concert Series.

Named to the “Chicago Tribune’s 50 Most Significant Songwriters in the Last 50 Years,” Austin, Texas-based singer/songwriter Danny Schmidt has amassed a cult following for his stunningly poetic, poignant imagery.

With lyrical depth drawing comparisons to Leonard Cohen, Townes Van Zandt, and Dave Carter, Danny is considered a preeminent writer, an artist whose earthy poetry manages to somehow conjure magic from the mundane, leading “Sing Out Magazine” to tag him as: “Perhaps the best new songwriter we’ve heard in the last 15 years.”

Performing solo almost exclusively, armed with just his voice, his acoustic guitar, and his acute commentary, Schmidt’s an authentic timeless troubadour, one man sharing his truth in the form of songs, unadorned and intimate. The understated effect can be startlingly powerful. As songwriter Jeffrey Foucault put it: “Everything about the man is gentle, except for his capacity for insight, which is crushing.”

Danny has been at Old Firehouse several times before, and always is a crowd favorite.

For more info go online to www.dannyschmidt.com.

Concerts

December 3rd (8pm) - Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison - If Austin’s happily egalitarian music scene suddenly switched to a monarchy, Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis might have to learn to perform while balancing hefty crowns.

Join Bruce and Kelly for their oh so popular Christmas show at Liberty Hall located in downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin. Tickets are $15-30; VIP Box seats are $160 and seat 4.

Tickets can be purchased at libertytyler.com.

December 10th (7:30pm) - i2i Records Presents “All Star Country Christmas” featuring the talents of Tim Atwood, Wade Benson Landry, and Dion Pride. Tim Atwood, a 38-year veteran of The Grand Ole Opry stage and the reigning AWA Instrumentalist of the Year, will be on the piano pounding thrills.

VIP tickets include the best seats in the house, a Pre-Show meet and greet with the stars, autographs, and special photo opportunities for $35. General admission tickets are $20-25.

Tickets can be purchased at libertytyler.com.

Liberty Hall is located in downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin.

December 10th (8pm) - Scott Stapp with Special Guests Adelitas Way will be in concert at Click’s Live, located at 1946 ESE Loop 323, Tyler. Tickets are $23 and are available at etix.com. For more info call (903)593-6499, clicks.com/texas-tyler.

December 10th (8pm) - Reckless Kelly will be on concert at Love & War in Texas, 114 E. North St. in Lindale. Tickets are at the door.

December 16th (8pm) - Josh Abbott Band will be in concert at Coach’s & Cowboys, 8374 Paluxy Dr., Tyler. Tickets start at $23 and can be purchased at wildtexastickets.com.

December 16th (8pm) - Elvis Hometown Christmas Show - Celebrate a hometown Christmas this holiday season with internationally acclaimed Elvis tribute artist Kraig Parker and the Royal Tribute Band. Parker’s powerful voice, looks, and moves are as close as it gets to Presley. Tickets are $20-35. Tickets can be purchased at libertytyler.com. Liberty Hall is located in downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin.

December 17th (8pm) - Ray Wylie Hubbard will be in concert at Love & War in Texas, 114 E. North St. in Lindale. Tickets at the door.

December 31st (8pm) - Aaron Watson will be in concert at Coach’s & Cowboys, 8374 Paluxy Dr., Tyler. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased at wildtexastickets.com.

Upcoming

In 2017, Tim Grimm and the Family Band will perform on January 7th; Karen Mal on February 4th; Crystal Yates on February 25th; Melissa Greener on March 11th; and Kipyn Martin on April 8th.

Admission prices for concerts are $12 in advance and $15 at the door, and events are on Saturday evenings beginning at 7:30pm with doors opening early so the audience can enjoy coffee and desserts that are always available.

The Old Firehouse is an intimate, smokefree and alcohol-free “Coffeehouse” that has made a name for itself by bringing national folk musicians and their all-original music to Edom’s unique listening room and stage.

Info can be found at theoldfirehouse.net, info@theoldfirehouse.net, or by phone at (903)852-2781.

Mondays: Trivia Live, 7pm

2017

January 13th (8pm) - Bellamy Brothers Howard and David continue to prove that the trail they’ve ridden to fame has been as unique as their music itself - music that is now celebrating 40 years of success. Regular seating is $25. Tickets can be purchased at libertytyler.com. Liberty Hall is located in downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin.

January 14th (7:30pm) - Chubby Checker will be presented at The Belcher Performance Center. Chubby stands alone as a one-of-akind Rock Icon, who has had 36 hit records, is the only artist to have a single go to #1 twice, and according to Billboard, has the #1 Single for the whole decade of the 60’s. The Belcher Performance Center at LeTourneau University is located at 2100 S. Mobberly, Longview.

For more info call (903)233-3080 or go to belchercenter.com.

January 14th (7:30pm) - Béla Fleck Acclaimed American banjo player Béla Fleck joins the ETSO to perform his original, signature work, “The Impostor.” The concert also features Copland’s rousing “Buckaroo Holiday” and Elgar’s popular “Enigma” Variations. This will be held at UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd. on the University of Texas at Tyler campus. Tickets range from $15-59 and are available at the box office by calling (903)566-7424 or go to cowancenter.org.

January 21st (7:30pm) - Jackie Evancho will be at the Cowan Center. Yes, she is the little girl who you remember from “America’s Got Talent” who stunned America at the age of 10!

The Cowan Center is located at 3900 University Blvd. on the University of Texas at Tyler campus. Public ticket sales begin November 28th. Tickets start at $37 and are available at the box office by calling (903)566-7424 or go to cowancenter.org.

January 21st (9pm) - Ace Frehley with special guests Enuff Z Nuff, and Bibeau will be in concert at Click’s Live. Located at 1946 ESE Loop 323, Tyler. Tickets are $25 and are available at etix.com. For more info call (903)593-6499 or go to clicks.com/texas-tyler.

February 17th (7pm) - Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt will be in concert at Caldwell Auditorium, 300 S. College Ave., Tyler. Tickets are not on sell yet. Stay tuned for details.

February 25th (8pm) - Baby Ray’s Apollo Night will be in concert at Liberty. Tickets can be purchased at libertytyler.com. Liberty Hall is located in downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin.

Boogie Butt Productions Presents

Starting at 8pm

Daily Drink & Lunch Specials 12 Taps with Quality Texas Brews - Texas Spirits The Best Margaritas in Town Designated Smoking Areas Outside 2 Patios - Pool Table Shuffleboard - Golden Tee - MegaTouch - Pizza to Go 903.504.5860 3807 University Blvd.

Tyler, Texas 75701 www.republicicehouse.com EGuideMagazine.com • 15

Levi Kitchen:

Using The Tools He’s Given

By Johnny Griffith Technology has at times been simultaneously loved and hated by musicians and fans alike over the years but there is no question that it is easier for musicians to do more on an individual basis now than ever before. One East Texan who has embraced technology on his quest to share his love of music with the masses is Levi Kitchen.

Born into an artistic family in Arlington, Texas in 1985, Kitchen’s family moved to Kilgore when his father became an art professor there. Growing up in Kilgore through school and college, he started tinkering with the guitar around age 10.

Heavily influenced by his dad and brothers musical abilities as well as their eclectic taste in performers, Levi quickly went from tinkering with music to full-fledged mastery as he started writing and performing in his teens and eventually majored in musical performance in college.

Later he branched out from guitar and is also capable on drums, bass, piano, trumpet, and djembe but dabbles with other stringed instruments like ukulele, mandolin, and others.

Now, as a solo act with several albums and production credits to his name, Levi performs on stage with his guitar, a loop pedal, and his imagination.

Levi took a break from his current schedule to answer a few questions about what it’s like to be Levi Kitchen.

Johnny: You are known for taking control of the creative process and utilizing technology when you perform to create a virtual backup band through loops and imagination. What drove that choice?

Levi: I didn’t start using a loop station to do a one-man-band show until about six years ago, but the solo idea was certainly built in from the start. I produced my first album at the age of 15, on which I wrote and played everything myself, including the guitars, drums, bass, keys, and turntables. From that point on I knew that I preferred the creative process of writing the songs and building the recordings entirely by myself, but traditional methods die hard, so I spent the better part of a decade playing in about a dozen different bands. When loop stations first started coming out I largely ignored them for years, not realizing the potential. Once again, one of my big brothers influenced me by giving me a very rudimentary loop station that I began to tinker with. It wasn’t long then before I realized that I could build an entire performance around the concept of looping sounds live.

Johnny: What are the challenges of using the loop pedal during the gig, and how receptive have audiences been to your style in this area so heavily dominated by country and rock?

Levi: The challenges are many. For one,

getting your timing right is crucial. If you miss your loop timing by the tiniest fraction of a second the song is essentially ruined. Doing all the complicated timing with your feet, while playing and singing or beatboxing at the same time can be mentally taxing. It requires a honing of intense multitasking. It took years of doing this process repetitively to get to the point that I don’t ruin at least one loop per show.

As far as how receptive audiences in this area have been, I’d say they were not very interested in it at first. Some people still don’t understand what I’m doing when they watch me. The people who do get it are always amazed when they realize what’s happening. I’ve made it a point to usually explain the process as part of my show. This seems to help people snap into the groove. As technology advances and more people get exposed to the art of looping, the response has changed.

I’ve seen a more positive response recently as people’s understanding catches up with the technology.

Johnny: You’ve been at this for about 15 years, yet you’re still young. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned over the first decade and a half?

Levi: “Love, love, love! That is the soul of genius!” - Mozart Do music because you love it, not because you want attention or money. Do music because you love it, and those other things might follow, but above all, if you’re not doing it because you love it, you will eventually fail or be miserable. I love music more than food.

I can hardly bring myself to do other things most of the time. So, love is the biggest lesson in the first fifteen years, but also in the next 15 years. Love will always be the biggest lesson.

My personal goal in life is to bring people joy through music. When I accomplish this task at shows, it gives me a sense of fulfillment and purpose that little else ever has in this life.

Johnny: You’re all over the board with

Native Texan, Mark McKinney to Saturday, PerformDecember at Love & War, Lindale 3rd at Love & War, 114 E. North

Street in Lindale at 9pm, Mark McKinney will perform in advance of his February 2017 release, “The World In Between.”

Mark McKinney likes to keep the people guessing. Considered by Texas music fans to be a powerhouse of a writer and entertainer, McKinney’s wide range of musical influences are clearly evident in his highly original songs - ranging from emotion and lyric-rich Americana songs to rowdy country anthems to delicately crafted love songs. A eest Texas native, Mark moved to Austin, Texas in the ‘90’s and has since been quite comfortable living in the live music capitol of the world.

In the summer of 2006, Mark released his first solo album, “Get It On,” and hit the road touring full time. Mark snagged his first Number One spot on the Texas Music Chart and TRRR in early 2013 with “She Ain’t Leavin’,” the debut single off of his latest album, “Standing My Ground.” Later that year, the second single from the album, “Stolen Cash,” made its way up to Number Three on the charts. In 2014, the single “Lonely 16 • EGuideMagazine.com

your cover tunes selection for your shows, but how would you describe your original music?

Levi: My original stuff is also all over the board. I write everything from rock to reggae to pop and R&B. There are even some original country, and praise and worship in there.

I’ve actually had a hard time being able to categorize what I do, which is part of my problem as an artist. When you can’t be placed in a category with other similar artists, then you are more difficult to find. People will stumble across your music more often when there’s other fan-bases to cross over with. It’s easier to catch traction with audiences of one certain, established style, but I threw caution to the wind on that subject since day one. I never allowed myself to be boxed in by any traditional methods or styles.

As a result, I may be one of the weirdest artists in East Texas, and I’m proud of that.

Not that I pursue weirdness for the sake of weirdness. On the contrary, the reflection of my soul emerges as different sounds at any given time. I’ve actually never fully understood how somebody can just be a country artist. Or how they can only be a rock artist. I find that view to be extremely closed-minded. I love music so much, I like to play with it all, in every way I can.

Johnny: How much of your material during your shows is original?

Levi: This will vary greatly from show to show, but I like to keep it at least 20% original or so. I have so much original material that I could easily do a full three hours of it, but people delight in the familiarity of the covers. When faced with an audience that’s never heard me, the balance will shift more towards covers for that reason. Their initial impression will be greatly enhanced by allowing them to hear songs they’re already familiar with.

When faced with a crowd that pays attention to my albums and requests original songs, I will lean more heavily on original, of course.

It’s all about them and bringing them joy, in

Bones” also reached Number One on both Texas Charts.

In March of 2016, “Sunshine,” Mark’s first single off his upcoming fifth studio album, also reached the Number One spot on the Texas Chart.

Touring constantly since 2006, McKinney has delivered more than 160 memorable performances every single year to his growing Texas and national fan base. To his credit, McKinney has penned co-writes with Grammy-nominated songwriters John Mabe and James Slater, as well as renowned Texas songwriters Kevin Fowler, Larry Joe Taylor, Bleu Edmondson, Kyle Park, and more.

McKinney also gained national recognition by having several songs licensed and used by ESPN and NASCAR. He also had several music videos appear on GAC and CMT. Over the course of his career, McKinney has shared the stage with music legends like Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, Charlie Daniels, Ted Nugent, Robert Earl Keen, Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, Billy Currington, Gary Allan, Ryan Bingham, Randy Rogers, Eli Young Band, Kevin Fowler, Pat Green, and more.

In the summer of 2008, during a tour in France, McKinney won the French Country Music Award for “Live Performance of the Year” for his concert at the Equiblues Festival in St. Agreve France. He is in great company - previous winners

whatever form they request it in.

Johnny: You have several albums on your website. Did you self-produce all of these?

If so, how has that process helped you hone your live show quality?

Levi: I do produce all of my own recordings, but it doesn’t stop there. I produce other artists as well. I’ve had the privilege of having artists drive here all the way from Los Angeles and Nashville to record in my little studio. If I had to guess, I’d say over the years I’ve been the engineer/producer for literally thousands of original songs for myself and other artists.

The knowledge of production helps tremendously in understanding how to manipulate frequency ranges in the live setting. I can tackle sound issues in a heartbeat because it’s never confusing. Recording and producing for so many years aided in the understanding of all things musical and sound related.

Johnny: What are you most excited about coming up in the new year?

Levi: I’m very excited about putting out a new album, but also about playing more often in Dallas. I’ve played Dallas many times before, but for some reason, Dallas seems to be getting more interested lately. I’ll be performing in Dallas five times next month, compared to the two or three times per year I’ve played there in the past.

Johnny: How big of a role has your family played in your success so far?

Levi: The biggest role in my journey has always been my family. They are what started it all, and wherever I end up, it’ll be because of them as much as anything that I manage to do on my own. My parents allowed us to turn their garage into our first recording studio when I was 14. That was one of the biggest decisions to ever affect my life. My parent’s amazing ability to cope with unreasonable volume and noise for so many years just blows my mind.

Johnny: Do you consider yourself a fulltime musician or are you still working a day gig to fund the process?

Levi: I have been a full-time musician for 7 years now. I own my own house and studio that I support 100% through musical endeavors. Before I went full-time music, I was also a radio DJ for two years, so in a way, you could even say music was already paying my bills full time as of 9 years ago, just in a different way.

Johnny: What do you try to leave the audience with at the end of a Levi Kitchen performance?

Levi: Joy! My primary focus in life is to bring people joy through music.

Aside from that, I try to leave them with an opportunity to rethink the stereotypes our society has attached to music as well as allow them to walk out with undamaged ears. I want to stimulate their neurons with one of the finest brain stimulants ever discovered: music!

(Seriously, do some research and read the studies if you’re not familiar with the myriad of brain benefits of music.)

For more info on Levi Kitchen and to listen to his music go to levikitchen.com.

of this award include Brad Paisley, Jamey Johnson, and Dierks Bentley.

With four studio albums, Fifteen Top 10 hits on the Texas Country Charts, an ever-growing fan base, and favorite entertainer of the Texas music scene, Mark McKinney is a force to be reckoned with and has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. Along with touring, Mark is currently writing for his fifth studio album due out February 2017.

For more info about Mark McKinney go to markmckinney.com. Tickets will be available at the door. For more info on Love & War go to facebook.com/friendsofloveandwarlindaletx.

EGuideMagazine.com GigGuide The Grove – Live Music, 8-12 Juls – DJ, 7-10 Liberty Hall – Hudson Moore, 7pm Love & War, Lindale – Dan Johnson, The Statesboro Revue, 8-12 Thursday, December 1st Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Doug Kent, Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – David 7-10 Allen, 8-12 Circle M Crawfish – Levi Kitchens, 6-9 Paradise Harbor, Hawkins – Karaoke, Dakotas Chop House – Solomon Skiles, 8-12 8-11 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Lacie Rick’s – Safira, 8-12 Carpenter, 7-10 Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Garage Bar – Open Mic, 6-10 Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – Half Moon Grill – DJ Rufus, 8-12 Marcus Casburn, 6-9 Potpourri House – Todd Rinlee, 6-9 True Vine Brewing – Live Music, 5-9 Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Where’s Rufus – Karaoke, 8-12 Friends, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Stone Country, Lindale – Karaoke, Saturday, December 3rd 8-12 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Ally Venable Friday, December 2nd Band, 8-12 11th Frame Club – Karaoke, 8-12 Caldwell Auditorium – Booth Brothers, The Back Porch, Kilgore – Justin Greater Vision, 7pm Merritt Band, 8-12 Click’s Live – Bibeau, Anxiety, Cut Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 7-11 Throat Queens, 9-1 Click’s Live – Dark Avenue, 8-12 Club 155 – Black Ice, 9-1 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Micky & The Dakotas Chop House – Nightwork Jazz, Motorcars, 8-12 8-11 Dakotas Chop House – Clay Thrash, The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Wade 8-11 Ralston, 7-10 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Meredith Garage Bar – Blacktop Mojo, 8-12 Crawford & The Blackhand Band, Juls – Lauren Alexander, 8-12 7-10 Lago Del Pino – Gary Patrick, 9-1 Garage Bar – Teazur, 8-12 Kawa’s – Ramoth Gilead, 7-10

EGuideMagazine.com

Music Gig Guide

Love & War, Lindale – Mark Mckinney, Left Arm Tan, 9-1 M6 Winery, Bullard – David Cooley, 3-5 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Wesley Pruitt Band, 9-12 Neon Country, Jacksonville – Brian Chance Band, 9-12 Old Fire House, Edom – Danny Schmidt, 7-10 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6-9 Rick’s – Live 5, 9-1 Stanley’s BBQ – TJ & Ken Murray, 12-3 Stone Country, Lindale – Live Music, 9-1 Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – Marcus Casburn, 6-9 Vintage Edom – Michael Jesch, 12-3 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12 XLN – Etx. Blues Boys, 9-1

Liberty Hall – Neal Katz, 7-10 Stanley’s BBQ – Ramoth Gilead, 6:30-9:30

Tuesday, December 6th Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Cork – Ramoth Gilead, 6-9 F D’s Grillhouse – Eric Mosley, 6-9 Garage Bar – Karaoke, 8-12 Half Moon Grill – Open Mic, 8-12 Love & War, Lindale – Songwriters Anonymous, 8-12 MoJoes Coffee Café, Henderson – Open Mic, 7-10 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Republic Icehouse – Open Mic, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker & Chris Oliver, 6-8:30 Summerfield’s Bar & Grille – Karaoke, 7-11 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12

Wednesday, December 7th

Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Tyler Dudley, 7-10 Republic Icehouse – Karaoke, 8-12 Sports Zone – DJ Aris, 9-12 Stanley’s BBQ – The Haggertys, 7-10

Thursday, December 8th The Back Porch, Kilgore – Gary Patrick, 7-10 Circle M Crawfish – Levi Kitchens, 6-9 Dakotas Chop House – Meredith Crawford, 8-11 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Kayla Ray, 7-10 Garage Bar – Open Mic, 6-10 Half Moon Grill – DJ LL, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Friends, 7-10 Stone Country, Lindale – Karaoke, 8-12

Friday, December 9th

11th Frame Club – Karaoke, 8-12 Sunday, December 4th The Back Porch, Kilgore – Darrin The Back Porch, Kilgore – Chris Click’s Live – Acoustic Chaos, 8-12 Morris, 8-12 Colston, 8-12 Cork – Ramoth Gilead, 12-3 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 7-11 The Grove – Chris Oliver, 11-2 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Randy Rogers Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Kyle Park, 8-12 Lago Del Pino – Dustin Becker, Band, William Clark Green, 8-12 Dakotas – Senor Gringo, 8-11 12-2pm Cork – Dustin Becker, 6-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Travis Bolt, Dakotas Chop House – Paul Shafer, 7-10 Monday, December 5th 8-11 Garage Bar – DJ Aris, 8-12 The 10 Spot, Jacksonville – Open Mic, The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Juls – DJ, 7-10 6-9 Wallace & T.D. Wilt, 6-10 Kawa’s – Ramoth Gilead, 7-10 Circle M Crawfish – Darrin Morris, Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Lago Del Pino – Kid Icarus, 9-12 7-10 Johnny & The Nightcrawlers, 8-11 Love & War, Lindale – Live Music,

EGuideMagazine.com • 17

8-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Pushwater, 8-12 Paradise Harbor, Hawkins – Karaoke, 8-12 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6-9 Rick’s – Random Axis, 8-12 Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – Marcus Casburn, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – Karaoke, 8-12 Yamato – DJ, 9-12

Dakotas Chop House – George Faber, 8-11 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Scatterproof Tuesday, December 13th Band, 7-10 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Garage Bar – DJ, 8-12 The Grove – The Magills, 7-10 Cork – Ramoth Gilead, 6-9 Juls – DJ, 7-10 F D’s Grillhouse – Eric Mosley, 6-9 Lago Del Pino – DJ Aris, 8-12 Garage Bar – Karaoke, 8-12 Love & War, Lindale – Gary Kyle, 8-12 Half Moon Grill – Open Mic, 8-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 Love & War, Lindale – Songwriters Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Chance Anonymous, 8-12 Anderson, 8-12 MoJoes Coffee Café, Henderson – Paradise Harbor, Hawkins – Karaoke, Open Mic, 7-10 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Saturday, December 10th Republic Icehouse – Open Mic, 8-12 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6-9 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Lady Chazz Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker & Chris Purple Pig – Live Music, 6-9 Rick’s – Good Question Band, 8-12 Oliver, 6-8:30 & The Tramps, 9-1 Summerfield’s Bar & Grille – Karaoke, Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Big Sandy Music Hall – The StratoTaste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – 7-11 blasters, 8-10 Marcus Casburn, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12 Breakers – Mia Tallant, 7-9 True Vine Brewing – Live Music, 5-9 Circle M Crawfish – Teazur, 7-11 Wednesday, December 14th Where’s Rufus – Karaoke, 8-12 Clicks Live – Scott Stapp, 7pm Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Dakotas Chop House – Gary Patrick, The Back Porch, Kilgore – Matthew 8-11 Jackson, 7-10 Saturday, December 17th The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Wallace,3-5, Adrian Johnston, The Back Porch, Kilgore – Teazur, 9-1 Cork – Dustin Becker, 6-9 7-10 Dakotas Chop House – Daniel Rocha, Big Sandy Music Hall – Joey James Juls – DJ, 7-10 Band, 7-9 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Wayland Hicks, 9-1 Cork – Lauren Alexander, 7-10 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Love & War, Lindale – Reckless Kelly, Dakotas Chop House – The Magills, Wallace & T.D. Wilt, 6-10 The Powell Brothers, 8-12 8-11 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with M6 Winery, Bullard – Michael Johnny & The Nightcrawlers, 8-11 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Gonzalez, 3-5 Wallace, 3-5, Heather Little, 7-10 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Steve Mario’s – Live Jazz 6-9 FRESH – The magills, 7-10 Carpenter, 7-11 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Chris Garage Bar – Cody Wayne, 9-1 Republic Icehouse – Karaoke, 8-12 Colston, 9-12 Stanley’s BBQ – The Haggertys, 7-10 The Grove – Gary Patrick, 7-10 Oil Palace - Gary Jones Jr, 8pm Kawa’s – Ramoth Gilead, 7-10 Thursday, December 15th Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6-9 Lago Del Pino – The Elegant Few, Rick’s – Random Axis, 9-1 10-1 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Cody Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Ken Love & War, Lindale – Ray Wylie Wayne, 7-10 Murray, 12-3 Hubbard, 8-12 Circle M Crawfish – Levi Kitchens, 6-9 Stone Country, Lindale – Dirtwater Dakotas Chop House – Scotty G, 8-11 M6 Winery, Bullard – David Cooley & Social Club, 9-1 Friends, 3-5 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Relentless, Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – Mario’s – Live Jazz 6-9 7-10 Marcus Casburn, 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Tejas Garage Bar – Open Mic, 6-10 Where’s Rufus - DJ, 9-1 Brothers, 9-12 Half Moon Grill – DJ Mike, 8-12 Yamato – Ramoth Gilead, 7-10 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6-9 Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Rick’s – Encore, 9-1 Friends, 7-10 Sunday, December 11th Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Ken Stone Country, Lindale – Karaoke, Murray, 12-3 Click’s Live – Acoustic Chaos, 9-12 8-12 Stone Country, Lindale – Live Music, Cork – Ramoth Gilead, 12-3 Friday, December 16th 9-1 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Tommy & Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – The Acoustics, 7-10 11th Frame Club – Karaoke, 8-12 Marcus Casburn, 6-9 The Grove – Chris Oliver, 11-2 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Gary Patrick Where’s Rufus - DJ, 9-1 Lago Del Pino – Dustin Becker, Band, 8-12 XLN – Sideshow Tragedy, 9-1 12-2pm Big Sandy Music Hall – Doyle Dykes, 7-9 Sunday, December 18th Monday, December 12th Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 7-11 The 10 Spot, Jacksonville – Open Mic, Click’s Live – Dead Horse Trauma, The Click’s Live – Acoustic Chaos, 9-12 Cork – Ramoth Gilead, 12-3 6-9 Alpha Complex, 9-1 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Tommy & Circle M Crawfish – Darrin Morris, Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Josh Abbott The Acoustics, 7-10 7-10 Band, 8-12

A D

Stanley’s BBQ – Ramoth Gilead, 6:30-9:30

11th Frame Club – Karaoke, 8-12 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Todd Freeman & Bulletproof, 8-12 Monday, December 19th Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 7-11 The 10 Spot, Jacksonville – Open Mic, Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Mike Ryan, 9-1 6-9 Dakotas Chop House – Rick St. Mars, Circle M Crawfish – Darrin Morris, 8-11 7-10 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Melissa Foundry – Jennifer Sides, 7-10 Ratley, 7-10 Stanley’s BBQ – Ramoth Gilead, The Grove – The Magills, 7-10 6:30-9:30 Half Moon Grill – Live Music, 9-1 Lago Del Pino – DJ Aris, 8-12 Tuesday, December 20th Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Love & War, Lindale – Jason Eady, Riley Foshee, 8-12 Cork – Ramoth Gilead, 6-9 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 F D’s Grillhouse – Eric Mosley, 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Chase Garage Bar – Karaoke, 8-12 McClanahan, 8-12 Half Moon Grill – Open Mic, 8-12 Neon Country, Jacksonville – Jack Love & War, Lindale – Songwriters Nelson Band, 8-12 Anonymous, 8-12 Paradise Harbor, Hawkins – Karaoke, MoJoes Coffee Café, Henderson – 8-12 Open Mic, 7-10 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6-9 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Purple Pig – Live Music, 6-9 Republic Icehouse – Open Mic, 8-12 Rick’s – Live 80, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker & Chris Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Oliver, 6-8:30 Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – Summerfield’s Bar & Grille – Karaoke, Marcus Casburn, 6-9 7-11 True Vine Brewing – Live Music, 5-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12 Where’s Rufus – Karaoke, 8-12 Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Wednesday, December 21st The Back Porch, Kilgore – Adam December 24th & 25th Brown, 7-10 erry hristmas Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker, 6-9 Monday, December 26th Dakotas Chop House – Gary Patrick, The 10 Spot, Jacksonville – Open Mic, 8-11 6-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Circle M Crawfish – Darrin Morris, Wallace & T.D. Wilt, 6-10 7-10 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Johnny & The Nightcrawlers, 8-11 Stanley’s BBQ – Ramoth Gilead, 6:30-9:30 Republic Icehouse – Karaoke, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – The Haggertys, 7-10

M

Thursday, December 22nd

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Tuesday, December 27th

Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Cork – Ramoth Gilead, 6-9 The Back Porch, Kilgore – BlakboX, F D’s Grillhouse – Eric Mosley, 6-9 7-10 Circle M Crawfish – Levi Kitchens, 6-9 Garage Bar – Karaoke, 8-12 Half Moon Grill – Open Mic, 8-12 Dakotas Chop House – Jonah Love & War, Lindale – Songwriters Gonzales, 8-11 Anonymous, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Chris MoJoes Coffee Café, Henderson – Colston, 7-10 Open Mic, 7-10 Garage Bar – Open Mic, 6-10 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Half Moon Grill – DJ LL, 8-12 M6 Winery, Bullard – Tommi Jo Harris, Republic Icehouse – Open Mic, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker & Chris 6-9 Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Oliver, 6-8:30 Friends, 7-10 Summerfield’s Bar & Grille – Karaoke, Stone Country, Lindale – Karaoke, 7-11 8-12 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12

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Friday, December 23rd

The Grove – Chris Oliver, 11-2 Lago Del Pino – Dustin Becker, 12-2pm

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Wednesday, December 28th

Dakotas Chop House – Clint Alford, 8-11 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Devin Leigh, 7-10 Garage Bar – Open Mic, 6-10 Half Moon Grill – DJ Mike, 8-12 M6 Winery, Bullard – Keith Rea, 6-9 Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Friends, 7-10 Stone Country, Lindale – Karaoke, 8-12

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Leap of Faith, 7-10 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker, 6-9 Dakotas Chop House – Daniel Rocha, 8-11 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Wallace & T.D. Wilt, 6-10 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Johnny & The Nightcrawlers, 8-11 Friday, December 30th Sports Zone – DJ Aris, 9-12 Republic Icehouse – Karaoke, 8-12 11th Frame Club – Karaoke, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – The Haggertys, 7-10 Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 7-11 Dakotas Chop House – Levi Kitchen, Thursday, December 29th 8-11 The Back Porch, Kilgore – 2nd Child, The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Junior 7-10 Clark, 7-10 Circle M Crawfish – Levi Kitchens, 6-9 Garage Bar – DJ, 8-12

The Grove – Live Music, 7-10 Half Moon Grill – Kid Icarus, 8-12 Juls – DJ, 7-10 Lago Del Pino – DJ Aris, 8-12 Love & War, Lindale – Austin Layne, 8-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Brett Hendrix Band, 8-12 Paradise Harbor, Hawkins – Karaoke, 8-12 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6-9 Purple Pig – Live Music, 6-9 Rick’s – Live 5, 8-12 Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – Marcus Casburn, 6-9 True Vine Brewing – Paul Shafer, 5-9 Where’s Rufus – Karaoke, 8-12 Yamato – DJ, 9-12

Saturday, December 31st The Back Porch, Kilgore – Darrin Morris Band, 9-1 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Aaron Watson, 9-1 Dakotas Chop House – Lady Chazz & The Tramps, 9-1 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Wallace, 3-5, Guthrie Kennard, Grace Pettis, 7-10 Kawa’s – Ramoth Low D’s Jam Band, 7-10 Lago Del Pino – Dustin Becker, 10-1 Love & War, Lindale – JB & The Moonshine Band, Austin Layne, 9-1 Mario’s – Live Jazz 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Wayland Hicks, 9-12 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6-9

Rick’s – Encore, 9-1 Stanley’s BBQ – TJ Hammersly & Ken Murray, 12-3 Stone Country, Lindale – Justin Dean, 9-1 Taste of Italy On the Lake, Hawkins – Marcus Casburn, 6-9 Where’s Rufus - DJ, 9-1 XLN – Dazed, Ally Venable Band, 9-1 EGuide will list any event for free, yes...

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Log on to our website, click “Send Us Your Event” and simply fill out the form.

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Red Petal Salon 3320 Troup Hwy., Tyler

Color - Haircuts - Highlights - Perms Straighteners - Hair Extensions - Feather Extensions Weddings - Proms - Vintage Styles Call For An Appointment

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EGuideMagazine.com • 19

Theatre Cherokee Civic Theatre will present its first “Sip & See” production with Josh King performing the oneman show, “The Santaland Diaries,” on December 3rd, 6:3010pm at the Cherokee Civic Theatre, 157 W. 5th St., Rusk.

Written by David Sedaris and adapted by Joe Mantello, “The Santaland Diaries” are the hilarious true-life misadventures of a writer moonlighting as an elf at Macy’s during the holiday rush. It’s a backstage tour of pushy parents, bratty kids, and holiday commercialism as “Crumpet” tries to maintain his sanity

through a combination of humor, attitude, and not a few beverages.

Josh King has been performing in East Texas theatres for nearly 20 years, including a previous production of “The Santaland Diaries.” He also serves as a director and playwright for Henderson Civic Theatre and is Director of Bands for Henderson ISD. He has taught in Rusk, Carlisle, and DeKalb ISDs and was previously a music minister at both DeKalb and Rusk First United Methodist Churches.

“The Santaland Diaries” is recommended for adults and will be preceded by a social hour with wine, beverages, and hor d’oeuvres. The “Sip” starts at 6:30pm; the “See” begins at 7:30pm.

This is a “Raise the Roof” fundraiser. Tickets are $22 a person or 2 for $40 and will be available at cherokeetheatre.net or at the CCT Box Office, 157 West 5th St., Rusk between 2-6pm weekdays. The Box Office number is (903)683-2131.

Thursday, December 1st (7:30pm) - Cirque Dreams Holidaze will be at the Cowan Center.

Witness snowmen, penguins, angels, reindeer, toy soldiers, gingerbread men, ornaments, and of course, Santa, with soaring acrobatics, gravity defying feats, elaborate production numbers, imaginative costumes, illusions, and more. The Cowan Center is located at 3900 University Blvd. on the University of Texas at Tyler campus. Tickets start at $37 and are available at the box office, by calling (903)566-7424, or go to cowancenter.org.

Friday-Sunday, December 2nd-4th; ThursdaySaturday, December 8th-10th (Evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm) - “A Neverland Christmas Carol” will be presented at Henderson County Performing Arts Center, located at 400 Gibson Rd., Athens. Tickets are available at the door or by calling (903)6753908 or at hcpac.org.

Friday-Sunday, December 2nd-4th; 9th-11th (Evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm) “Chaps! A Jingle Jangle Christmas” will be presented by Lake Country Playhouse. “Whoa, Brittania! Panic at the BBC in 1944!” Tex Riley and America’s favorite singing cowboy are late for a special broadcast...and the antics and fun begins. Lake Country Playhouse is located at 114 N. Johnson St., Mineola. For more info call (903)569-2300 or go online to lakecountryplayhouse.com.

Friday-Sunday, December 2nd-4th, ThursdaySunday, December 8th-11th (Evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2:30pm) - “It’s A Wonderful Life” will be on stage at Tyler Civic Theatre. This faithful, fast-moving stage adaptation is not only a joyful Christmas tale - it’s the gorgeous love story of George and Mary Bailey, a vivid portrait of the greatest generation, a descent into the darkest hour of a man trapped by circumstance, and a powerful meditation on what makes a meaningful life. Tyler Civic Theatre is located at 400 Rose Park Dr., Tyler, next to the Tyler Rose Garden Center. For more info call (903)592-0561 or go online to tylercivictheatre.com.

Saturday, December 3rd - “The Santaland Diaries” will be performed at Cherokee Civic Theatre. Based on an essay by David Sedaris and starring local talent Josh King of Henderson, this adult comedy is a humorous account of Sedaris’ stint working as a Christmas elf in “Santaland” at Macy’s department store.

Cherokee Civic Theatre is located at 157 W. 5th St., Rusk. For tickets or more info call (903)683-2131 or go to cherokeetheatre.net.

Thursday-Sunday, December 8th-11th - “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” (Evenings at 7:30pm, Sunday at 2pm) will be presented at Cherokee Civic Theatre. The swearing, bullying Herdmans are the “most awful kids in town.”

Even worse, this year, they’ve taken over the annual Christmas nativity play. Cherokee Civic Theatre is located at 157 W. 5th St., Rusk. For tickets or more info call (903)683-2131 or go to cherokeetheatre.net.

Sunday, December 18th (6pm) - Tyler Civic Chorale presents the 11th Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols at First Presbyterian Church located at 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. To purchase tickets or for more info go to facebook.com/tylercivicchorale.

Friday-Sunday, January 6th-8th, ThursdaySunday, January 12th-15th (Evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2:30pm) - “I Hate Hamlet” will be on stage at Tyler Civic Theatre.

Set in John Barrymore’s old apartment in New York City - at the time, the author’s real-life home - the play follows successful television actor Andrew Rally as he struggles with taking on the dream role of Hamlet, dealing with a girlfriend who is keeping a firm grip on her chastity, and playing host to the ghost of John Barrymore, who, clothed as Hamlet, has come back to earth for the sole purpose of convincing Rally to play the part. Tyler Civic Theatre is located at 400 Rose Park Dr., Tyler, next to the Tyler Rose Garden Center. The box office is open Monday-Friday, 10am-1pm and 2-5pm.

For more info call (903)592-0561 or tylercivictheatre.com.

Saturday, January 14th (7:30pm) – The East Texas Symphony presents ‘Uniquely American’ featuring banjo player Béla Fleck performing his original work “The Impostor” and more. ETSO concerts are performed at the UT Tyler Cowan Center, located at 3900 University Blvd. on the University of Texas at Tyler campus. Tickets are sold through the Cowan Center Box Office by calling (903)5667424, or go to cowancenter.org. ETSO’s website is etso.org.

Tuesday, January 31st (7:30pm) - “Pippin” will be on stage at The Cowan Center and is a high-flying, death-defying, hit Broadway musical. Full of extraordinary acrobatics, wondrous magical feats, and soaring songs from the composer of Wicked, “Pippin” will lift you up and leave you smiling. The Cowan Center is located at 3900 University Blvd. on the University of Texas at Tyler campus. Tickets start at $37 and are available at the box office by calling (903)566-7424 or at cowancenter. org. This is fun for all ages!

“Sip & See” Plus “The Santaland Diaries:” A Full Night of Fun

Your Holiday Gift Headquarters!

302 W. Rusk St. Tyler, Texas 75701 903.570.5143 Inside Reflections Wig Salon & Boutique

20 • EGuideMagazine.com

Art

Inside the Artist’s Studio:

Rebecca Clarke “Just because I’m into this, does that mean I should live like it and really do I dare?”

By Derrick White

If you are connected to Wi-Fi or happy with your data plan, please take a moment and watch the following short video: www.youtube. com/watch?v=qpunQZ4cUyI (Canadian spoken word poet Tanya Davis’ song “Art,” animation by screenwriter and film director, Andrea Dorfman. Both artists hail from Halifax, Nova Scotia). If you are reading the hardcopy edition of this issue of EGuide Magazine, please take a moment to look it up or, at least, jot it down for later. It is a nice, little pick-me-up. When I watch “Art” by Tanya Davis and Andrea Dorfman, it cheers me up. I feel reassured by its insecurity. I find it optimistic and encouraging with a message to go out in the world and make a positive declaration. It reminds me of the work of local artist, Rebecca Clarke, because of the cartoons and cheerful, appealing inventiveness. Rebecca is a dedicated ‘lifetime’ artist. She works with a constant devotion and rich delight rare among most artists. Her work is intimate, quirky and profound. She is a congenial and sanguine person. The type of person this world needs.

“I don’t really know what started me on my path as an artist. I loved to draw, write, and doodle. I started doing these activities when I was really little. I know every kid loves to color and draw but I would constantly be drawing stories to show my mom, before I could write down what the stories were about. I think there is something subconscious about sitting down with paper and a pencil and creating scribbles on paper,” reminisces Rebecca.

Clarke had her first formal experience with art in sixth grade. She remembered learning the basics from taking classes. She states, “I took an after school art class where the assignments were more creative and open-minded. I started getting more interested in different processes of art beyond drawing or painting. My after school art teacher, Mrs. Woods, opened the door to the creative sides of art by letting me express myself and my thoughts, which is what I instantly became attracted to.” But her high school at the time didn’t offer any art classes, so she didn’t get the chance to expand her artmaking knowledge until college. “I still retained the same love for art, which is what caused me to pursue it in college and I have been taking college level art classes since,” recollects the artist.

Rebecca Clarke is from Bullard and received an Associate’s degree in Art from Tyler Junior College and then subsequently

continued studying Fine Art at the University of North Texas in Denton.

She states an important aspect art has brought to her life is the ability to experience different perspectives other than her own. “While making art is an intimate and personal process, learning to appreciate and understand art is rewarding. It is eyeopening to look at someone else’s art and think of all the different factors which go into making it and what it means to you. Art can really be about anything, important or silly, or aesthetically pleasing. There is a feeling one gets when one looks at new pieces and tries to understand them,” urges Rebecca. She states, “Art has definitely brought a sense of enjoyment into my life, as well as satisfaction and freedom. There is a sense of free will in what you are doing, being able to create something however you want, is freeing. And then when you are finished, there is satisfaction. It is therapeutic.

You are addressing your own topic and ideas so it makes a statement.”

Or, as Tanya Davis put it, “I wondered what would be the worth of my words in the world. If I write them and then recite them are they worth being heard? Just because I like them does that mean I should mic them and see what might unfurl? And I think of the significance of my opinions here.

Is it significant to be giving them? Does anybody care? Just because I’m into this, does that mean I should live like it, and really do I dare?”

Rebecca Clarke works with the basics; pencil drawing, pen drawing, acrylic and ink but also enjoys pastels and charcoal. “I like to draw digitally as well but it can be challenging at times. Drawing digitally is fun, and the images you get are clean, but when you struggle with line work it makes it difficult. I’m extremely thankful for the online resources. Looking up tutorials or even a new style of drawing is really effective. I’m happy I live in an age where I can use Google,” affirms the artist.

She is inspired by such contemporary

At The theTylerTyler Museum of Art Museum of Art (TMA) is located at

artists as Sophie McPike (Melbourne based illustrator) and Erin Hanson (Los Angeles based landscape painter), as well as art history’s Edward Hopper (American realist painter and printmaker), Frida Kahlo (Mexican, Surrealist self-portrait painter), Claude Monet (a founder of French Impressionism) and Edouard Manet (the forefather of French Impressionism).

Rebecca Clarke advises, “Being an artist, you will struggle with your works repeatedly.

While it can be fun, it can also be really challenging and difficult. When the work starts to go in a direction you did not intend, it can be frustrating trying to get it back onto the right path. The biggest struggle I’ve had is trying to meet my art in the middle instead of what my original aim was. Almost all of my professors

Organized by the Tyler Museum of Art, the exhibition showcases works from the TMA’s Permanent Collection as well as public and private collections throughout the state, all focused on the theme 1300 S. Mahon Ave. on the Tyler Junior College of plant and animal life in the region. Several pieces main campus. Regular TMA hours are 10am-5pm included in “Flora and Fauna” were completed only Tuesday-Saturday, and 1-5pm Sunday. The Museum recently and will be making their public debut duris closed Mondays and most major holidays. For ing this “panoramic showcase of our region’s natural more info call (903)595-1001 or tylermuseum.org. splendor,” TMA curator Caleb Bell said.

Featured artists in the exhibition include Helen Regional Artists, Landscapes in Focus with TMA’s “Flora and Fauna” Altman, Mark Messersmith, Melissa Miller, and the The Tyler Museum of Art highlights the unique late Luis Jimenez, in addition to photographer Keith plant and animal life of the Texas landscape from Carter, and wildlife painter Billy Hassell, both of the perspective of 20 of the region’s most promiwhom have been the focus of previous solo exhibinent contemporary artists with its next major exhibi- tions at the TMA. “Flora and Fauna” also highlights tion, “Flora and Fauna.” Featuring close to 30 works the work of several artists whose work will be exhibacross a broad spectrum of media including paintited at the Museum for the first time.

Support for the exhibition is provided by Collecing, photography, sculpture, and silhouettes, the tors’ Circle - Gold Sponsors Martha and Randy Key, exhibition opens to the public on Sunday, December 11th and continues through March 19th, 2017. and Sheryl Rogers Palmer.

Admission is free.

Special Events TMA members and special guests are invited Special events in connection with “Flora and for a first look at the exhibition during the PreFauna” include First Friday Tours at 11am January view Reception from 5:30-7pm Saturday, December 6th, February 3rd, and March 3rd, and Family Days 10th at the Museum. To RSVP or for information on from 2-4pm Saturday, January 14th, February 11th, becoming a TMA member, call (903)595-1001 or and March 11th. Admission to all special events is visit www.tylermuseum.org. free, but reservations are encouraged.

have told me creating an artwork is having a ‘conversation’ or ‘dialogue’ with the piece, and that is the best way of explaining it. You have to start being okay with losing some control.”

Or, as Tanya Davis put it, “So, I pondered the point of my art in this life. If I make it, will someone take it and think it’s genuine? Will they be glad I did because they got something good out of it? Will they leave me and be any more inspired? I question the outcome of the outpouring of myself. If I tell everyone my stories will this keep me healthy and well? Will it give me purpose, to this world some sort of service, is it worth it, and how can I tell?”

You can friend and possibly commission art from Rebecca Clarke through Facebook at @beckstertwosocks.

Christo and Jeanne-Claude Through January 8th, 2017

The “Christo and Jeanne-Claude: The Tom Golden Collection” features more than 50 collages, photographs, drawings, and objects spotlighting the couple’s legendary career. Organized by the Sonoma County Museum in Santa Rosa, California, the exhibition surveys the career of Christo and his late wife Jeanne-Claude through small-scale pieces made between 1962 and 2000 that have functioned both as plans for large-scale outdoor installations and as sale items to fund their major projects.

Local sponsors for “Christo and Jeanne-Claude: The Tom Golden Collection” include Texas Oncology Tyler, Presenter; and June and Steve Hillis, Collectors’ Circle Gold.

General exhibition admission is $5 for adults and $3 for senior citizens. TMA members, students, children 12 and under, TJC faculty and staff, and City of Tyler employees are admitted free.

Special Events

Special events in connection with “Christo and Jeanne-Claude” include First Friday Tours of the exhibition at 11am December 2nd, and January 6th.

Family Day is 2-4pm December 10th.

Admission to all special events is free, but reservations are encouraged.

EGuideMagazine.com • 21

Books Good Reads for December

By Gini Rainey “What the Dead Know” by Laura Lippman Written by Lippman, a newspaper reporter with more than 20 years of experience under her belt, “What the Dead Know” tells the story of the disappearance of the Bethany sisters who disappeared from Baltimore during the Easter weekend in 1975. While it took me a good while to get immersed in this book, the character development and background feed about the 30 year old cold case kept me reading.

This book’s premise, logic, and mystery are well developed with the conclusion explaining some of the earlier discrepancies that seemed to pop out of nowhere. And, while the book abounds with many mysteries, as the reader progresses through the story, possible explanations abound, and perhaps even the actual conclusion will start pressing into the forefront.

While this is a very good novel that I would recommend to anyone interested in mysteries, particularly those that involve missing children and family dynamics, there are some aspects that made me question the context of those very aspects.

Without revealing too much about this book (after all, it is a mystery) there are some things that just leave you scratching your head. For instance, the far-fetched explanation of the police officer’s income and his overwhelming attachment to the mother, or details like why the mother stays in Mexico, remains a mystery.

However, none of the discrepancies will hinder the enjoyment of a well-written novel, nor the interesting combination of personalities and locations that combine to make this a good read during the winter months.

Rating: 4 of 5; Copyright 2009, William Morrow Paperbacks “The Lives We Bury” by Allen Eskens When cousins get together, especially mine, we talk about a lot of things that we are doing.

At a recent get-together, one cousin posed the question, “What three books have you read recently?” Believe it or not, the titles just started flying so fast, in fact, that we had trouble keeping up with the flow so we could write them all down. “The Lives We Bury” was one of those titles, and by the way one cousin was talking, I knew this would be one book I would read very soon.

Allen Eskens, an award-winning and “USA Today” best-selling author and criminal-defense attorney from Minnesota, gives us quite a story about Joe Talbert, a college student who has been given a seemingly simple writing assignment for an English class: interview and write a brief biography of a stranger. What follows is hardly a simple story. As Joe begins to dig deeper into the life story of Carl Iverson, a

Vietnam War veteran who is dying of pancreatic cancer, Joe learns that he is also a convicted rapist and murderer who has been medically paroled to a nursing home to spend his last days.

This is such a well-written book with well developed characters, and such a descriptive sense of writing that the reader will feel a part of every scene. This is a well-balanced story with a main character that chose repeatedly to care for others while sacrificing his own needs.

This is definitely a book that draws the reader in and keeps him hooked all the way through. Don’t even think about doing anything else while reading this book if you can help it. Erskine will grab you at the beginning and won’t turn you loose until the very end.

Rating: 5 of 5; Copyright 2014, Seventh Street Books “Night School, Jack Reacher Series Book 21”

by Lee Child I anxiously have been waiting for the November release of the newest book in the Jack Reacher series. This is book 21 in the series, and let’s be honest, you don’t read 20 of anything unless you really like the characters, and “Night School” is no different.

From Amazon, “The incomparable hero of ‘Jack Reacher: Never Go Back’ takes readers to school in his newest and most explosive novel yet. After 11 straight global #1 bestsellers, discover the thrillers that ‘The New York Times’ calls [the latest book] ‘utterly addictive.’”

The story line is this: It’s 1996, and Reacher is still in the army. In the morning they give him the Legion of Merit medal, and in the afternoon they send him back to school. That night he’s off the grid. Out of sight, out of mind. Two other men are in the classroom—an FBI agent and a CIA analyst. Each is a first-rate operator, each is fresh off a big win, and each is wondering what they are doing there. Then they find out: A Jihadist sleeper cell in Hamburg, Germany, has received an unexpected visitor—a Saudi courier, seeking safe haven while waiting to rendezvous with persons unknown. A CIA asset, undercover inside the cell, has overheard the courier whisper a chilling message: “The American wants a hundred million dollars.” For what? And who from? Reacher and his two new friends are told to find the American. Reacher recruits the best soldier he has ever worked with: Sergeant Frances Neagley. Their mission heats up in more ways than one, while always keeping their eyes on the prize. If they don’t get their man, the world will suffer an epic act of terrorism.

I downloaded the book and began reading with huge expectations about one of my favorite fictional characters, Jack Reacher. I found immediately that instead of picking up where last year’s Reacher book, “Make Me” left off, Child takes Reacher back in time to 1996, and Reacher is still in the Army. The book is a great

Pajama Storytime - All aboard! Come in your PJs and join us for a magical evening as B&N hosts their annual “Polar Express” Storytime.

There will be coloring and activities to follow, including writing a Dear Santa letter.

• December 3rd (9am-9pm) - Educator Holiday Shopping - Pre-K through 12 educators are invited to a special holiday shopping event - just for you! Educators will receive a 25% discount on books, toys, games, movies, music and more plus 10% off Café consumables and select NOOK® devices. B&N booksellers can help educators find the perfect gift for themselves and everyone on their holiday shopping list.

• December 3rd (11am) - “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Storytime - “Grow Your Heart 3 Sizes” and celebrate all things Grinch with a reading of the classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” B&N will have good deed badges and tracking booklets for kids to log all the good things they do this holiday season. Activities will follow.

• December 9th (7pm) - Harry Potter Magical Holiday Ball With Barnes & Noble - Dress like your favorite Harry Potter character, wear your holiday best or come as you are and join us for dancing, music, activities and giveaways. This is free to attend for all ages.

• December 10th (11am) - “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” Storytime - Join this Storytime featuring “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” one of the most beloved children’s books of all time. Coloring and activities will follow.

• December 17th (11am) - “Santa’s Sleigh Is on Its Way” Storytime - It’s a magical Christmas Eve, and all of the children in your town are sleeping. Well, all of the children but you. How could you possibly fall asleep when you know Santa and his sleigh are on Every month Barnes & Noble has a varitheir way? Join B&N for all the fun! ety of events. All are free to attend. Barnes & • December 31st (11am) - “Hap-Pea All Year” Noble Booksellers is located at 4916 S. BroadStorytime - Just in time for New Year’s, the way, Tyler. For more info on this and other peas from the bestselling LMNO Peas are events call (903)534-3996 or go to barnesandback for more fun - this time exploring the noble.com. months of the year! Join B&N for Storytime • December 2nd (7pm) - “The Polar Express” and activities featuring “Hap-Pea All Year.”

read and certainly includes Child’s renowned character, Reacher, combining mechanical precision and brute strength to beat up bad guys, as well as a good degree of violence falling somewhere between Bruce Lee and a backhoe. Best of all, fan-favorite Sergeant Frances Neagley makes a welcome reappearance, riding shotgun with Reacher as he hunts for the bad guys.

The ending? We won’t give that away, but as expected the hero is always Reacher, and in book 21 Reacher’s extraordinary powers of deduction do not diminish as he, as always, works in tandem with his predictable buttkicking abilities.

Reacher utilizes his cleverness as always, and this book rolls along, albeit a bit slower and denser than previous books, but “Night School” is still completely satisfying. The plot twists enough to be entertaining and turns frequently with danger around every corner.

Normally I can’t stop reading and end up losing sleep when I start one of the books in this series because I have to know what happens next. With “Night School,” I did not feel this way; even though the book was good, I found it not as exciting overall as previous ones. I prefer the new, if aging, Reacher to a flashback, but “Night School” is still an engrossing book that I enjoyed.

And for the record, casting Tom Cruise as Jack Reacher in Lee Child’s Reacher movies?

Just, no. No way. The Rock would have been so much better.

Rating: 4 out of 5; Copyright 2016, Delacorte Press

Barnes & Noble Booksellers December Events

Looking for a Space for an Event?

The beautiful Liberty Hall is available for rent and comes with an excellent sound system and presentation capabilities for groups of up to 300! You can rent Liberty Hall for: • Trainings • Power Points • Video Presentations • Lectures • Conferences • Concerts • Meetings • Services To inquire, contact:

LibertyTyler.com or 903.595.7274

Downtown Tyler - 103 E. Erwin • Tyler, Texas 75702 A Department of the City of Tyler

22 • EGuideMagazine.com

December Holiday Fun at Come the Tyler Library to the Tyler Library this month and

neutral or white thread. For more details and a complete list of supplies, please contact the Library’s information desk. This will be held on the third floor, Internet Center Workroom.

Tuesday, December 20th - ClubRead Book see the many exciting events that are planned Discussions are held at 10am. This is open to all book lovers. for young and old alike. The Tyler Library is located at 201 S. College, downtown Tyler. For Every Tuesday (5:30-6:30pm) - Tuesday more info call (903)593-7323, or go to www. Computer Tutorials - Bring your own device TylerLibrary.com. for this one-on-one Q&A on basic computer use.

Children Every Tuesday (5:30-6:30pm) - Evening Storytimes Meditation - Classes are held weekly. Learn All storytimes will be in Taylor the practice of Heartfulness Meditation with Auditorium.

Gayathri Kambhampati.

• Leeme un Cuento / Read to Me Storytime (children 3-6) is on Mondays at 10:30am.

First and Third Wednesday (5:30pm) • Toddler Time Storytime (children under age Gentle Yoga - This gentle yoga class will be 3) is on Wednesdays at 10:30am. taught by Meagan Vrba who is certified in • Read Aloud Crowd Storytime (children 3-6 yoga, CPR, and first aid. You must bring your years old) is on Thursdays at 10:30am. own yoga mat.

Saturday, November 5th (10:30am-12 noon)- Every Friday (3-5:30pm) - Game Trends & A Holiday Tea sponsored by American Girl® Book Club - This is a holiday celebration of history, crafts, tea and goodies. The Library would appreciate donations of packaged snacks and treats to serve. The American Girl Book Club meets the first Saturday of each month from September to May. Saturday, December 17th (10:30am) - Merry Grinchmas - Come out and celebrate with the Grinch and watch a 25-minute movie, play games, plus crafts and snacks.

Saturday, December 3rd (2-4pm) - LEGO® Block Party - Children ages 3 and up, bring your imagination for an afternoon of building and playing! LEGO® and Duplo Blocks are provided. LEGO® Block Party meets the first Saturday of each month from September to May. December 27th-30th (10:30am) - Family Movie Matinee - Families are invited to watch a fun feature-length film in the library’s auditorium. Due to licensing agreements, movie titles are not allowed to be listed in print, but you can find them at TylerLibrary.com.

Pillows, blankets, and carpet friendly snacks are welcome. Free.

Classics - Join others at the library to play card, board, and role playing games. Bring friends or make new ones as the group explores both old classics and new, exciting titles.

Every first and third Friday (1-5pm) Veteran’s Movie - These bi-weekly screenings of movies are presented especially for veterans.

It is free to watch these historic classic movies.

Every Saturday (11am-12 noon) - Crochet Classes will be held on the 3rd floor Internet Center Workroom. These are free classes.

Learn to crochet with Library staff and volunteers. All materials are provided. All experience levels are welcome.

First Saturday of every month (11am-12 noon) - Beginner Computer Classes - The Library offers computer classes for the beginner. Classes will cover basic computer knowledge, email basics, job search basics, and how to write a résumé. Seating is limited to 10 participants. Registration is required.

GET FREE PUBLICITY!

Submit your events to our Day-By-Day Calendar at:

EGuideMagazine.com

Teens

Every Tuesday (4:30-5:30pm) - Teen Tuesdays - If you are in Middle School or High School you’re in! The Tyler Library will have games, activities, and fun geared just for teens.

You can earn volunteer hours completing special projects, too.

Tuesday, December 27th (4:305:30pm)- Teen Tuesday White Elephant Party- Students age 12-17 can bring a wrapped gift (valued at less than $10) for a fun White Elephant Exchange. Plus, you can watch a movie and enjoy snacks with other teens. Movie title, rating, and run time is available at www.TylerLibrary.com. Pillows and blankets are welcome. Free, no registration is required.

Adults

Friday, December 9th (3-5pm) - Christmas High Tea - Join us for a Christmas High Tea catered by Chez Bazan. Tickets are $20 each.

All proceeds go to the Friends of the Tyler Public Library. The cost is $20 per tickets.

Limited tickets are available. RSVP by calling (903)593-7323.

Tuesday, December 20th (12 noon-1pm)Quilting Celebration - Join the Library’s Quilting Class for a demonstration of their completed projects and enter to win a quilt.

Light refreshments will be served.

Every first and third Monday (4-5pm) Adult Coloring - Enjoy a relaxing and stress free session of coloring twice a month.

Every Tuesday (10am-1pm) - Quilting Classes - Learn the art of quilting as class participants will complete individual and group quilting projects. Fabric and quilt patterns will be provided. Participants are asked to provide their own sewing machines, if they have them, as well as scissors, and

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